OLD HOUSE KITCHEN

Homesteading Goals

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

I listed some goals over at The Prairie Homestead's Facebook page and it inspired me to share it with you all. I wrote HERE how we try to do a lot of things around our homestead for ourselves. Self-sufficiency is the key for us. In the three years we have lived in our home we have learned and begun many projects. We have a large garden, several blueberry bushes, a cherry tree, make our own laundry soap and dishwasher soap, raise chickens for eggs and for meat, raise dairy goats, make yogurt, ice cream, and do a lot of canning and cook from scratch. I am so thankful for all that we do for our family, but there's always room for improvement.

This year I want to...

1. Master the art of bread making. (I've been pouring over Homestead Blessings: The Art of Bread Making dvd.)

2. Help my girls sew some skirts again with the help of Homestead Blessings: Art Of Sewing dvd.

3. Start our garden from seed (did it a few years ago and ended up making money selling starters!) Yep, you guessed it...the West ladies have a dvd for that, too. Homestead Blessings: The Art of Gardening

4. Start an herb garden. Again the West ladies have a wonderful dvd all about growing and identifying herbs and what to do with them. Homestead Blessings: The Art of Herbs

5. Make cold frames. Cold frames are covered in the gardening dvd.

Do you have any homesteading goals for the year? You don't have to live on 3 acres to have a "homestead", though, you know. You can live in town and have the homestead mentality. Being self-sufficient, doing for yourself and not depending on store bought what-nots. Give it a try! Share what you'd like to do!

Cranberry Nut Muffins

2012-01-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

This is another variation on the Basic Muffin Mix I posted last week. Go to the Basic Muffin Mix post for that recipe.

Cranberry Nut Muffins
1 cup chopped fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 chopped walnuts (pecans or almonds would be good, too!)
3 T. sugar

Gently fold into the batter before spooning into the muffin pan.

Topping:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup (packed) brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix the topping ingredients together and spoon over the muffins before baking. Slightly press the topping into the tops of the muffins (helps the sugars to not fall off).

Enjoy!

Simplify Your Life Series: The Elements of Clean

2012-01-22T23:10:00.000-05:00

If you're looking to simplify a little bit of your life or achieve a major overhaul then join me for our ten part series as we work along side Country Living's Simple Country Wisdom: 501 Old-Fashioned Ideas to Simplify Your Life by Susan Waggoner. I touch base on a few points in each chapter, expound upon them and share some of my own tips. Grab your favorite cuppa and join along! (Start at the beginning HERE.)

Behind the Scenes

The Elements of Clean

"The best, most efficient way to have a clean home", Susan Waggoner states, "is to keep dirt and mess to a minimum in the first place." I wholeheartedly agree! Here I'll share a few of her tips as well as my own.

Preventative Cleaning Vacuum or shake entryway rugs and mats when you vacuum the rest of the house...if not more often. (One inside the door and one outside the door is extra protection from the dirt!) Keep shoes by the door not on your feet traipsing dirt all over the house wearing out the carpet and flooring. Wipe your pooches paws when he comes in from nasty weather or a muddy yard. Clean carpets with a steam cleaner once or twice a year.

How to Clean Many people grow up not knowing how to clean. In our large family, everyone will leave as a grown up with full knowledge on the subject! I have a lot of excellent helpers! Take a peek at some of their chores HERE. There are three levels of clean. Level One: Tasks that need to be tended to every day or a few times a week. Level Two: Tasks that need to be accomplished weekly or monthly. Level Three: Tasks that are done once or twice a year. For levels One and Two visit my post HERE on organization and motivation for cleaning. I have a printable that I use to keep me on target of those day to day and week to week tasks. I think of Level Three cleaning as Spring Cleaning. I share my cleaning list with you HERE. Having a plan and sticking to it is worth it's weight in gold! Turn on the music to help boost your energy and make you more productive! (We love the "Sweet Caroline" station on Pandora.) Complete a task during a television commercial! Sometimes they can be super long and you can get a lot done!

Bathroom Trouble Spots Keeping the bathroom clean at our house can be near impossible. If we stay on it, though, it can be done. Prevent mildew in the bathroom with good ventilation. Keep the shower curtain drawn to prevent mold from forming in the creases. Rub ceramic tiles with car wax, let stand for ten minutes, then buff them as you would your car..they'll be nice and shiny! A toothbrush, an old rag, baking soda, and vinegar are the best defenses in the loo. I have a homemade cleaner recipe HERE .

The Way with Windows Washing windows can be tricky. If your windows always seem dirty you may need to check the filters in the heating and air conditioning units. You could be blowing dust back into your air. Choose a cloudy day to clean the windows to prevent streaks. A squeegee is my best friend when it comes to washing windows. They come in all sizes and when using a squeegee you won't need paper towel! For a quick and easy homemade window spray mix one-third cup water, one-third cup rubbing alcohol and one teaspoon white vinegar. Use vertical strokes on one side and horizontal strokes on the other so you'll know which side of the window the streak is on. If you have frost that forms on the inside of windows in cold weather you could either have too much humidity in the air or not enough insulation. Try polishing the inside of the window pain with isopropyl alcohol.

Curtains and Trim The fastest and most effective way to dust blinds is to put on a pair of cotton gloves, dust them with spray and glide your fingers over the slats. Adjust shades and blinds to cut energy costs. They can not only deflect heat from the sun, but they can provide an extra barrier against the cold. Use light, bright fabrics for curtains in the warm weather to encourage air flow. In cold weather, heavy drapes absorb the cold air around the windows. If you can't afford two different sets make curtain liners of heavy fabric and thread them on an expansion rod to pop in the window in the winter.

Need more tips on cleaning? Want more secrets to make a bathroom sparkle? Want to know how to be the most efficient when tackling an entire room? Hop on over to my Amazon store and order HERE.

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Join me in the coming weeks as we unwrap the present that is our lives. The next step in our series is cleaning our homes. Please share this series by placing the button in the side bar of your blog or share on Facebook by clicking the button at the very bottom of this post.

* photos courtesy of Country Living

This post is part of the Homestead Barn Hop.

Jill @ The Prairie Homestead

Kendra @ New Life on a Homestead

Kelly @ The Morris Tribe

and Amy @ Homestead Revival

Dutch Apple Cake

2012-01-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Our family doesn't have cable. We enjoy instant streaming on Netflix, instead. One of the shows we like to watch is "Cake Boss". A recent episode we watched showed Buddy (the "Cake Boss") showing someone how to make a Dutch Apple Cake. It looked so yummy! I had a box of cake mix on hand that a friend had given me and a can of apple pie filling left over from our summer camping trip (think campfire pies) so I knew I could come up with something. I ran to the computer to find a recipe that I could tweak. The results were an entire cake gone in one meal (which, honestly, isn't hard with our big family), and several requests to make it again. My plan is to can apple pie filling this fall and also figure out a bulk basic cake mix recipe like my muffin mix recipe. When I do I will be sure to share it with you! Until then, enjoy!

Dutch Apple Cake
1 pkg. (18 1/2 oz.) yellow cake mix
1/2 c. butter, melted
2 eggs
1 can (21 oz.) apple pie filling

Topping:
3/4 c. packed brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. butter, softened

Preheat oven 350 degrees. In large bowl, combine dry cake mix, melted butter and eggs; blend well. Spread on the bottom of a 9x13 cake pan. (It will not look like cake batter...it will be a lot thicker...that's o.k.!) Spoon pie filling evenly over batter. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, cut in butter. Sprinkle over pie filling. Bake for 30-35 minutes. This cake is especially yummy topped with a scoop (or three) of ice cream! Enjoy!

photo courtesy country living

Basic Muffin Mix and Chunky Apple Muffins

2012-01-18T07:00:00.004-05:00

A friend shared a recipe with me and over the course of the last few weeks I've been tweaking it and having the family taste test my creations. I make a quadruple batch of the mix and store in an air tight container (will keep for up to three months). For sake of organization in the tabs above this will be posted under the "Bread" and "Breakfast" tabs. I'll add new variations as I test them and tweak. Enjoy!

Basic Muffin Mix
8 cups all purpose unbleached flour (you can use half wheat if you like)
1 1/2 c. sugar
3 T. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg

Basic Muffins
2 3/4 c. muffin mix
1 c. milk
1/3 c. honey
1 egg, beaten
1/2 c. oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray muffin pans with cooking spray. Put muffin mix in medium bowl. Combine egg, milk, honey, and oil in a small bowl. Add wet ingredients all at once to muffin mix. Stir until just moist. Batter should be lumpy. Spoon into muffin pans. Bake approx. 15 - 17 minutes. Makes 12 muffins.

Chunky Apple Muffins
Add the following to the wet ingredients:
1/2 c. applesauce
1 1/2 c. chopped apples (I used two small/medium apples)
2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
3 T. sugar

Topping:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup (packed) brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix the topping ingredients together and spoon over the muffins before baking. Slightly press the topping into the tops of the muffins (helps the sugars to not fall off).

Enjoy!

Simplify Your Life Series: What Meets the Eye

2012-01-15T23:20:00.002-05:00

The Home That Welcomes

What Meets the Eye

The easiest, quickest, and least expensive way to perk up our home's decor is with paint! The hardest part is choosing your colors! I am the worst at picking paint colors. I see something in a magazine and think it would look good in my home then I second guess my decision over and over. A good trick is to buy a small can of the colors you are debating, paint them on a large piece of cardboard (after priming) then hold it up around different areas of your room.

The author suggests (and we do this, too) to buy metal paint trays. They are durable and you can purchase inexpensive plastic liners that are disposable so clean up is a cinch!

With that cardboard piece you painted write the manufacturer, paint number, and name of the shade on it. Take the swatch with you when you go shopping for accessories to be sure they will coordinate.

If you have left over paint store it in a baby food or small mayonnaise jar for touch ups and ditch the rest. After all, if you need more than that to touch up you will have to buy a new can anyway. Just be sure to label the jar with manufacturing information and as to which room the paint belongs. Use a cotton swab to touch up a scratch or blemish on the wall.

Decorating. It's my favorite part to a room makeover! I wholeheartedly agree with the author when she says that "it's best to stick with a style you love, whether it's English cottage, mid-century modern, or farmhouse style, leave the trend setting to others. Your personal style will always be classic for you, and the only reason you'll end up with green shag is because you love it."

Keep a folder or notebook of ideas you like. I do this for home decor as well as items I might like to craft some day. If you see a room you really love, copy it! I am such a copy cat decorator and crafter! If I see something I like I figure out how I can do it, and it's often a fraction of the cost! In your notebook of ideas keep copies of receipts of major furniture purchases, care labels, paint swatches, etc. Anything you need to remember about how and what you decorated with.

Make things you love part of your decor. What fun is it to collect vintage quilts and toys if you're just going to squirrel them away and not enjoy them?

If you haven't found the major piece of art work to put above the sofa then do what I do and make a grouping of smaller, thematically related pictures and items. Above our sofa I have two 10x13 pictures, three 5x7 pictures (all in black frames) along with some black wrought iron word art. Simple!

Dress your rooms for the seasons! Spring and summer call for lighter curtains, brighter pillows, slipcovers and throws. Fall and winter call for thicker curtains, warm cuddly pillows, and heavy quilts. Don't forget to pack away any decor that's out of season so your home isn't cluttered.

Try growing a few potted plants inside. Arrange them in baskets and containers deep enough to conceal the pots. I have to confess that even though I can grow all sorts of things outside I have an indoor brown thumb. All I can seem to manage is keeping a vase of flowers alive. Let me know how you do with that! *smile*

Don't forget the senses! Burn high-quality scented candles to sweeten the smell of your home. If you don't like to burn candles you can melt potpourri tarts in a burner (my Hubby makes one that I sell HERE). Make your own potpourri by adding citrus rinds, apple peels, and cinnamon sticks! Or soak cotton balls in concentrated extracts such as vanilla, lemon, or orange (Be sure to keep them out of reach of pets and children!).

Want to learn more about how to paint, how to stage a room (something not just for resale value), or getting a guest room ready? Hop on over to my Amazon store and purchase HERE.

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* photos courtesy of Country Living

This post is part of the Homestead Barn Hop.

Jill @ The Prairie Homestead

Kendra @ New Life on a Homestead

Kelly @ The Morris Tribe

and Amy @ Homestead Revival

Falling Tomato Juice

2012-01-13T07:14:00.000-05:00

Yep. Falling tomato juice. When we froze our tomato juice from last summer's bounty we put it in freezer bags. We also canned some, but we're using the ones in the freezer first. We lay them flat in freezer when we first freeze then we can stand them up like books to better use our space. Well the other day one fell out and just about took off a toe. (Well, sorta.) We have a fridge/freezer combo upstairs and in the basement and also two upright freezers in the basement. They can get pretty full when fall rolls around. After a summer of freezing blueberries, strawberries, cherries and zucchini we then move on to tomato sauce (and a lot of it...we love Chili!), green beans, etc. We also buy half and whole horns of cheese and shred so we have baggies of those in the freezer as well. All of those baggies can get a bit overwhelming. So I've been reading a few books and hunting around the internet and found this pic.

Isn't that lovely?! Not only am I going to buy some baskets to organize my frozen fruits, veggies, sauce, etc. I think I'm going to buy some of those plastic freezer containers for my sauce this year. Woo hoo! I'm excited for freezer organization! (Come on...you have to be a little bit motivated, too, right? ... Right?)

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Do you have any freezer organization ideas you'd love to share? Please do!!

Spinach Dip

2012-01-11T07:45:00.000-05:00

Every year my mother-in-law's side of the family gathers together to celebrate Christmas. It's a fun time of sharing stories about the year's events, ooh and aah at new babies, talk football, play some pool and, of course, eat some delicious food! I always take either Grandma Frays' Mac-n-Cheese or Crock Pot Mac-n-Cheese. My husband's cousin Jen and her hubby Scott always bring their yummy spinach dip! It's sooo good! Jen was kind enough to share the recipe with us!

Spinach Dip

2 bars cream cheese, softened
11 to 13 oz of drained spinach
1 can artichoke hearts (Jen thinks 11 oz. or so.)
3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan/Romano blend cheese (Kraft in a can!)
1/2 tsp. minced garlic or 1/8 tsp. garlic powder

Mix all ingredients and cook in a crock pot on low for 2 to 3 hours.

photo credit Taste of Home

Simplify Your Life Series: Clutter Control

2012-01-09T07:00:00.005-05:00

If you're looking to simplify a little bit of your life or achieve a major overhaul then join me for our ten part series as we work along side Country Living's Simple Country Wisdom: 501 Old-Fashioned Ideas to Simplify Your Life by Susan Waggoner. I touch base on a few points in each chapter and expound upon them and share some of my own tips. Grab your favorite cuppa and join along! (Start at the beginning HERE.)

The Home That Welcomes

Clutter Control

The marketing industry wants us to believe that we need more things. I agree that a buy one get one free sale is tempting but all those things can add up to one big cluttered mess! That clutter can hinder us in many ways. Clutter can get in our way not just physically but socially as well. For me personally I get cranky when the house starts to clutter up. When it's cluttered I don't want to entertain guests. Who wants to see someone else's mess?

Nip the clutter in the bud! Before it even finds a place to live and start to multiply! (It seems to do that, doesn't it?!) Since we are a big family we are often given hand-me-down clothes. If I kept all of the clothes that everyone ever gave me I wouldn't be able to walk through my house! Don't get me wrong. I'm thankful for their generosity, but we really don't need to keep everything. What I do to cut the clutter is set the bags on the bench by the door until I can get to them some time that day. When I sort through them I take out what I want to keep (put it in the laundry so it gets washed and put away soon) then the bag of items we don't need is sent to the van to drop off at the Goodwill on our next trip to town.

Same goes for books. We're given books a lot. School books, theological books, cook books, magazines, etc. I flip through the books/magazines and if there's enough to peak my interest they go to a proper home in the house. If they're not interesting enough...to the Goodwill bag they go. Besides, with the modern convenience of the internet we have so much information at our fingertips!

Our children are perpetual packrats. I think they get that from my dad. He kept my old swingset and stored it in the attic of their garage not getting rid of it until they sold their house to move about 9 years ago. Yes, my dad kept my swingset almost two decades after I was done using it! In order to keep that gene in check with our children we make it a point to deep clean their rooms regularly. The week before Christmas we had them sort through their belongings. We made a deal with them that for every grocery store bag they filled with toys or stuffed animals we would give them one dollar. We were paying them to get rid of stuff! They were ecstatic! We were $23 in the hole, but we were free from 23 bags of stuff they no longer played! With their money one child put it towards her savings for a camera. Another bought a new Webkinz. Our oldest is into building with motors, batteries and techie things like that so he bought some parts and pieces with his money. In our eyes it was a win-win situation!

It's nice to deep clean on occasion (like spring cleaning), but to keep the house in tiptop shape on a regular basis we have regular chores. I have my regular chores and the kids have theirs. (And of course my poor hubby has his never ending honey-do list.) We've added to their lists that each kiddo has a room they need to tidy up before dinner. It's supposed to be every night and it works best if it happens this way, but some days are very busy before dinner so it waits until after dinner or before bed.

Another thing that has helped me in my clutter maintenance was to toss the guilt! You don't have to save everything! I have a hard time letting go of something that was a gift that just isn't my size, style, or fits my needs. Instead of it cluttering up my home and doing no one any good sitting on a shelf or hanging in a closet I have decided that it's o.k. to give it to Goodwill or to a friend. Lest you think I'm cold and heartless let me just say you should see my cedar chest, the top of my closet, and a few totes in the basement. Moving right along...a-hem.

Speaking of closets...we all keep things that don't fit us hoping that they will some day. Right? For me I've started just in the last few months getting rid of skirts and dresses that I haven't worn since before baby number three over ten years ago! Fashions have changed and I need to, too. I made a big trip to Goodwill that week and I suddenly have extra hangers!

Something that's on my list of things to do at the end of winter is account for all the winter gear. Round up all the coats, scarves, mittens, and hats and decide which should be given away, thrown away, and kept. (I think I have a few mittens out in the mudroom that are destined to an orphan's life!) Wash and dry them. Pack them away in totes with cedar wood blocks to keep them fresh. If the cedar scent has vanished do what the author does -- give them a light sanding with sandpaper and the scent will come back full strength.

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What tips helped you best? What might you do this week to control your clutter?

Join me in the coming weeks as we unwrap the present that is our lives. The next step in our series is making our home pleasing to our senses. Please share this series by placing the button in the side bar of your blog or share on Facebook by clicking the "Like" button under this post.

* photos courtesy of Country Living

This post is part of the Homestead Barn Hop.

Jill @ The Prairie Homestead

Kendra @ New Life on a Homestead

Megan @ A Blossoming Homestead

and Amy @ Homestead Revival

I Love My Hubby!

2012-01-08T18:12:00.002-05:00

Even though he's been up to his eyeballs in papers and exams to grade since before Christmas break began he found the time to install a new faucet and vanity top in the main bathroom this weekend!

Before:

An old sink basin that is cracked and chipping in every place imaginable. Plus the cold faucet handle falls off any time you touch it. When we have company we always have to holler "Don't worry, you didn't break it!" when we hear it clunk into the sink and our guest say "Uh oh!".

After:

Isn't it beaoootimus?! We won a little shopping spree at our local hardware store so we got the Moen faucet for free!! The vanity top was bought with combined gifts of Christmas money and an extra side carpentry and handyman job hubby did over break.

I love it! And I love him for installing it so soon!

Growing Up!

2012-01-07T07:45:00.000-05:00

Our little guy is growing up so fast! He had a well check up yesterday and now weighs 15 pounds 1 ounce and is 23 inches long! Here's a little sampler of our photo shoot yesterday. (click on the picture to enlarge)

Pancake Molds: The Easy Way!

2012-01-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

I recently bought a bunch of pancake molds for a little bit of nothing at JoAnn's. It inspired me to make a nice breakfast of pretty shaped pancakes for the gang. Recipe HERE. I thought maybe ya'll would like to know how I did it!

I have to say that although I got a great deal at JoAnn's, they were a little on the cheap side; bent funny so that the batter seeped out the bottom. It definitely pays to use the better kinds (I have a Pampered Chef star that works much better!) I found these Star and Flower Pancake Egg Rings on Amazon. They're Norpro brand so I have no doubt they will work well!

Just a few tips...

Spray the molds really well with non-stick cooking spray. (You may need to spray them again after a few pancakes.)

Put the pancake batter in a squeeze bottle so you can have better control when putting the batter in the molds.

Cook the pancakes on one side then, using the handle of the mold, flip the pancake over and tap it out of the mold. (In most cases it should slide right out.)

To make the process quicker use 6-8 pancake molds at once.

Try using cookie cutters! (Not the ones with silicone handles, though.) Put the cookie cutter upside down (the side that has the ridge) then when you flip it over (use tongs) you can tap it out of the cookie cutter easier.

Voila! Lovely holiday style pancakes!

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

2012-01-04T07:45:00.000-05:00

We made these over Christmas break. They were deelish! You can also make them as peanut butter balls, but the bars were so much easier.

photo credit

No Bake Peanut Butter Bars
adapted from Amy's Finer Things

1 cup butter
1 cup peanut butter
1 sleeve graham crackers, crushed (about 20 crackers)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 cup chocolate chips (milk chocolate is our favorite!)

Melt butter. Blend with peanut butter and crushed graham crackers (I used my KitchenAid stand mixer). Sift powdered sugar into peanut butter mixture, one cup at a time (I sprinkle it through a strainer). Mix until well blended. Batter will be stiff!

Press into a 9x13 pan. Melt chocolate chips; spread over bars. Refrigerate before cutting into small squares. (They are as rich as fudge!)

Enjoy!

Simplify Your Life Series: The Home That Welcomes

2012-01-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year everyone! With a new year comes the nagging within to see something to completion. You all know what I'm talking about ... that dreaded "R" word? I don't like that word. It sounds like a legal term to me. Too serious. You know? I like to think of them as goals. If you know me personally or have been a reader here for a while you've heard my catch phrase "It's good to have a goal!". Well it is! Zig Zigler says "If you aim at nothing you'll hit it every time." I have a few goals for this year. One of them is to simplify my home. I mean every part of it; menus, recipes, schedules, closets, cupboards, etc. If you're looking to simplify a little bit of your life or achieve a major overhaul then join me for our ten part series as we work along side Country Living's Simple Country Wisdom: 501 Old-Fashioned Ideas to Simplify Your Life by Susan Waggoner.

The Home That Welcomes

What Makes a Welcoming Home?

It's the place we all want to come home to. There's no place like it according to Dorothy. There are many elements that make a home. Cleanliness, efficiency, self-reliance, and joy are just a few elements that are discussed in the book.

Your home need not be spotless and stark, but it should be a refuge from the busy world we live in. It should be clean and uncluttered. Do you have mail that's waiting to be sorted through? Laundry that you meant to put away three days ago? Is there a gooey, sticky mess waiting for you in the microwave? "Learning how to keep a house clean and uncluttered is the groundwork for many loftier achievements -- happiness, thriving family relationships, intellectual pursuits, hobbies that nurture creativity, and renewed energy and enthusiasm for the life we live outside the home." Again we don't want the stark and sterile look. Think fluffed pillows, candles burning, some soft music playing. Try one of those this week!

Our homes should be efficient. The rooms should accommodate the needs and activities of the people who live in them. Efficiency means not being wasteful. The furniture and possessions in our homes need to be well cared for and made to last. Water and lights are turned off when not in use and left overs thrown away are a rarity. Try leaving post-it notes around your home as a reminder!

No one is truly self-reliant anymore, but it's good to try. (Good to have a goal, right?! *wink*) My husband is the very model of self-reliance. No matter what repair in our home needs to be accomplished he tackles it head on. Plumbing, carpentry, yard work, planting, and animal care (we have goats and chickens that need special attention at times) just to name a few. If he's not sure what he's doing he'll ask someone or read about it. Try to fix something yourself instead of hire someone. That's a great goal to have this year! I'm going to try to make more bread from scratch! A simple step in self-reliance is to try making your own fun! Instead of DVD's, computers, iPods, etc. cuddle up with a good book or read aloud as a family! Try reading the Bible in a year together or at least the New Testament! Work a puzzle together. Even little ones can find the straight edges of the borders! Find one way this week you can do something that's simple and fun!

Our homes experience the joys of the seasons right along with us. They get decorated and spruced up, too! Our homes help us develop traditions; turning on a lamp for a loved one on their way home, a summer garage sale, pancakes on a Saturday morning, etc. The simple act of traditions, no matter how simple, give us joy. Find a new tradition to try this week!

"They say that people fall in love with houses, but houses never love you back, and I suppose that's true. But if you take time to manage your little part of the world, if you put energy and thought into the way things are done, you'll receive some things that are pretty valuable in return -- comfort and joy, time to relax and appreciate your life and the people in it, and rooms that welcome you each time you return. All in all, pretty well worth the effort." -- Susan Waggoner

Join me in the coming weeks as we unwrap the present that is our lives. The next step in our series is taming the clutter. Please share this series by placing the button in the side bar of your blog or share on Facebook by clicking the "Like" button under this post.

* photos courtesy of Country Living

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-30T08:00:00.001-05:00

Today is our oldest daughter's 13th birthday! Wow!

Two teenagers in the house! I am feeling old today!

Pictures from our photo shoot last year.

Helping in the kitchen!

Loving on her baby brother!

Happy Birthday our beautiful Rebekah! We love you!

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Stay tuned for Monday's post! A new series: Simplify Your Home!

SALE!

2011-12-26T15:08:00.000-05:00

Hello all! I hope ya'll had a blessed Christmas! We're lounging around the house today eating leftovers, watching movies, playing games, and taking down the tree. Tomorrow I'll be shopping a few sales at the craft stores. I'm looking forward to the discounts. Since I love a good sale I thought I'd have a sale at my Etsy shop. So if you've been eyeing that snowman ornament set, been meaning to try the spiced chai or thought you might like to buy a stitched towel to set aside for a gift for a friend for next year head on over!

Discount code is GOODBYE2011

See you there!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

From our house to yours!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Bringing in the New Year"

2011-12-21T10:00:00.009-05:00

A long time ago (not that long ago, but it seems that way for me) I did a series featuring the book Queen of the Castle. I thought since baby is here (I'm scheduling these posts out) that I'd recap the holiday part of the book. So every Wednesday you'll get some great tips on prepping your heart and home for the holidays. This is the last post for this series recap. I thought I'd share it with you early since I'll more than likely be taking a bit of time off for Christmas.

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This chapter in Queen of the Castle is "Bringing in the New Year". Lynn begins by sharing her love for leaving the "holiday cheer to twinkle away until well after May Day." Lynn, however, also appreciates the wisdom of her husband and now enjoys clearing the house January 1st. "It feels good to clear out the old in readiness for the new. Isn't that what the New Year is all about?"

Lynn suggests using the last week of the year for clearing out excess "stuff".

*As you put away new gifts, get rid of one gift.

*As you put away a new shirt or sweater, get rid of one. Better yet, clear out all the sweaters and shirts you haven't worn in the past few years!

*Go through file cabinets and get rid of papers no longer needed.

*Sort through your craft stash. If ~~a certain blog writer~~ you started a project more than five years ago and haven't finished it, pitch it or give it away! I'm totally not pointing fingers ~~in the mirror~~ here (a-hem).

We have a kiddo with a birthday on Dec. 30th. Some years we keep the decorations up until January 1st, some years we take them down before her birthday. I'm not sure what we'll do this year, but it will be before we start back up with school again on Jan. 3rd.

This year I will make Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Crock Pot Mac-n-Cheese, Cherry Cinnamon Applesauce, steamed green beans, and then we'll probably enjoy some brownies (usually made by our Rebekah) and the some Peppermint Candy Cane Ice Cream (loooove it!). Afterward we'll sit around and go through our calendar for 2011 remembering our hardships as well as the blessings of the year. We'll go around the room and pray for this coming new year. Then we'll play some games, watch a few movies (The Sound of Music will be one of them!) and bring in the New Year with a prayer and bedtime hugs and kisses for those kiddos who haven't already fallen asleep and been carried off to their beds.

- - -

"I thank my God in all my remembrance of you,

always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all."

Philippians 1:3-4

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Picky Eaters

2011-12-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

Will you have picky eaters at your holiday table that will only eat mashes potatoes and won't touch another veggie? Try steaming a bit of cauliflower ahead of time and then when the potatoes are mashing toss in some cauliflower. They won't know what hit 'em!

* * *

Include your picky eaters in the making of the dishes (well, except for the potatoes if you add in that cauliflower *wink*). They will be much more likely to enjoy eating a dish if they know what's in it.

* * *

If your child won't refuse to eat everything on his or her plate, compromise. There are other days you can battle that dinner time ordeal head-on. Think about it...you may have company, there may be new dishes they don't like, they may not have gotten enough sleep and they may be on overload with all the noise and happenings of the day.

Compromise is the key. Have them pick a few things they will eat in order to head to the dessert table. Let's say they have 3 veggies, a meat, and a roll. Cut the meat portion in half (unless they love the meat!), break the roll in two, and have them pick a veggie they will eat (or a few bites of each kind). I know some say to just let it all go during the holidays but that will make your January meal times much more difficult. Especially if you intend to get back on track with healthy eating in the new year.

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Some Holiday Fun!

2011-12-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you enjoy watching these little goats as much as we did!

Merry Christmas!

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Baby Cheesecakes

2011-12-16T10:00:00.002-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

My mother-in-law makes these every Christmas and they are so yummy! Yes, I know it's not Christmas, but they sounded so yummy I just had to share them with you!

Baby Cheesecakes

19 oz. cream cheese - softened
3 eggs
1 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. sugar
vanilla wafers
Paper baking cups

Place paper baking cups in muffin pans. Place one vanilla wafer in each cup. Mix all ingredients and fill cups 3/4 full. Bake in a preheated 375 degree oven 12-15 minutes. Fill center indentations with pie filling of your choice. I sometimes use our home made cherry filling.

Enjoy!

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Peanut Butter Pie

2011-12-15T10:00:00.009-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

When we go to the Frays' family Christmas gathering I always bring this! It's so yummy I rarely have any to bring back home so I have to make two: one for us and one for the gathering!

Peanut Butter Pie

1 chocolate cookie pie crust
1 cup peanut butter
8 oz. cream cheese (room temp)
1/2 cup sugar
12 oz. Cool Whip
1- 11.75 oz. jar Smucker's Hot Fudge Ice Cream Topping, divided (see below)

Drizzle:
2 T Hot fudge
2 T peanut butter

In a medium-ish bowl, beat together the peanut butter, cream cheese and sugar. Gently fold in 3 cups of Cool Whip. Spoon the mixture into the pie shell. Smooth mixture to edges of the pie.

Set aside 2 T hot fudge from the jar (put it in a baggie). Microwave the jar of hot fudge for 1 minute. Stir. Spread it over the pie to cover the peanut butter layer. Refrigerate until serving time.

Just before serving, spread the remaining Cool Whip over the hot fudge layer. Be careful not to mix the layers! Remember you want it to look pretty and all!

Place the 2 T hot fudge in a small baggie and knead it for a few seconds. Cut a tiny hole in the corner of the bag and drizzle over the pie. I do it in lines about an inch apart. Do the same thing with 2 T of peanut butter going in the opposite direction of the hot fudge stripes.

Enjoy! Someone pass me a fork!!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Eating Our Way Through the Holiday"

2011-12-14T10:00:00.013-05:00

* * *

This week's chapter in Queen of the Castle is "Eating Our Way Through the Holiday: Christmas Foods". If you're anything like Lynn, the author, or myself, you are drooling over cookbooks and magazines that have to do with Christmas foods right about now. I have been for a while, but I love food so it goes without saying!

Lynn shares her family's traditional Christmas meals. I have already done so HERE, but I'm thinking of changing things up a bit. I'm thinking of making it a bit easier on myself so I can better enjoy the day with my family. After reading Lynn's suggestions I'm thinking of the following:

Whip up Old House Baked Eggs (recipe HERE) the night before and pop them in the oven in the morning.
Make these Cinnamon Rolls (recipe HERE) and bake them in the morning. Cut up some fruit; cantaloupe, and serve with strawberries, grapes, and orange wedges. Serve along with chunk cheese and crackers. Bake some bacon (how I do it HERE) the night before and zap it in the microwave to warm it up. And maybe...just maybe make ahead some Sausage Gravy and Biscuits (recipes HERE). My revised plan is to (perhaps) nibble on some fruit and cheese while we do stockings and read from Luke, then have our big breakfast/brunch?, unwrap gifts and then...

In lieu of a large lunch/dinner (that we usually have) we'd have some sort of soup, stew or chili in the crock pot. But...I really want something different. I serve chili, chicken (or turkey) and rice soup a lot, so I'd like for it to be something different. And...it has to be gluten free for my mom. I like for her to eat what we eat on our special holidays so she doesn't feel like she's missing out (I know...she'll miss out on the rolls, but she can eat everything else for breakfast/brunch and she doesn't like rolls anyway.). So...I need your help ladies! Have any ideas for me? (I posted this question on Facebook a while ago but I'd still like some more ideas!)

I haven't forgotten about the book review here...Lynn shares a story about a goose being cooked for Christmas dinner as well as a few recipes. I'll end with the verse she shares...

- - -

"In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.'"
Luke 2:8-11

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: On Hand Munchies

2011-12-13T10:00:00.051-05:00

I have come to learn what is expected of my kitchen this time of year...

Munchies. On hand. All the time.

Here are my go-to's.

Block cheese cut up and in a container in the fridge. Some of our favorites are havarti, colby-jack, pepper jack, and cheddar.

* * *

Crackers to pair with the cheese. We love the Keebler Club crackers and Triscuit Cracked Pepper and Olive Oil! I start stocking up on those earlier in the month knowing that they will be devoured along with that cheese!

* * *

Summer sausage...once in a while that's a requirement to go with the cheese and crackers.

* * *

Cookie dough. Lots of it! I'll make large batches of cookie dough and put them in reusable ice cream buckets and keep them in the freezer. When we want a dozen (or four) we'll take out our bucket and bake away. Our favorites are Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookie, Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie, and Sugar Cookie.

* * *

Popcorn! Whether you like to microwave it, pop it over the stove or in an air popper you can't have Charlie Brown Christmas special or any other Christmas show without popcorn! Oh and peanuts or cashews to go along with it and a few cookies! (Oh I am making myself hungry!)

* * *

Fun beverages are a must during the holidays. Hot cocoa packets are nice to keep in a basket on the counter. I have Spiced Chai on hand year round, but this time of year it's a must! Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra special treat! Spiced Cider is fun, too, for an extra special treat!

What are some of your favorite go-to munchies during the holiday season?

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Kitchen Tip Tuesday: More Christmas Kitchen Decor Ideas

2011-12-12T11:33:00.000-05:00

**I'm reposting this again because I've added it to the Holiday Barn Hop

I shared several ideas last week from Gooseberry Patch. There were just so many that I loved that I
thought I'd share a few more with you!

Use a colorful quilt or length of red homespun as a holiday tablecloth.

* * *

Create a tree skirt to treasure. Lightly brush your children's hands with water-soluble paint and have them gently press their handprints onto a length of unbleached muslin. Use a permanent marker to add their names and the year. Tiny baby hand and foot prints would be darling, too!

* * *

Nestle a small artificial evergreen in an empty flour sack...perfect for the kitchen!

* * *

String cranberries onto florist's wire, then shape into a heart or star.

* * *

(This idea is mine...)

Use cookie cutters to decorate your kitchen! Loop ribbon through and tie in a bow. Hang from chandeliers, window panes, knobs of cupboards. Or just pile them in a beautiful basket and make it a centerpiece for the counter!

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Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Crock Pot Mac-n-Cheese

2011-12-12T10:00:00.010-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

This is a much requested dish at a pot-luck, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter dinners, and any other time my family has a hankering for it!

Crock Pot Mac & Cheese

16-oz. pkg. elbow macaroni, cooked
12-oz. can evaporated milk
10.5-oz. can cream of chicken soup
2 c. sharp cheddar cheese shredded
2 c. five cheese blend shredded (or mozzarella)
2 c. co-jack cheese shredded
1 - 2 sticks of butter, melted
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper

Mix all ingredients together and pour into a slightly greased slow cooker. Cover and cook on low setting for 3 to 4 hours. Makes 12-16 servings.

Holiday Fun in the Kitchen!

2011-12-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

While the men of the house went out to hunt and gather a tree last weekend (insert Tim Taylor grunt here) the ladies of the house stayed home and made goodies while watching "Little Women". Here's the fun that ensued! (By the way, I gave my oldest son his camera to snap pictures of their adventures. He came back with lots of fun stories but no pictures. *sigh*)

First off Hannah made Cracker Cookies (recipe HERE). She used butterscotch chips. They were good and tasted a bit like caramel corn, but the chips didn't melt. I think they were a bit on the old side. Bummer. But I have made them with milk chocolate chips (that melted, by the way) and they were deeeelish!

Next Rebekah and Hannah made Oreo Truffles (recipe below). They were so yummy! I think we might make some this next week with peppermint Oreos! Super yummy!

Then Lydia and Abby helped make Peanut Butter Balls (recipe HERE). (Which my gluten free mom really enjoyed! I think I'll make a batch of these for her stocking. Shh...don't tell her, though!)

Then, keeping with our sugar cookie decorating tradition Rebekah whipped up some sugar cookies using a mix (we were getting tired so we were thankful we had a mix on hand!). She and I tag-teamed this adventure. When the men were home and we were done with dinner we decorate our cookies.

- - - - -

Oreo Truffles (from Kraft.com)

1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 pkg. (16.6 oz.) OREO Cookies, finely crushed (about 4-1/4 cups), divided

2 pkg. (8 squares each) BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate, melted

MIX cream cheese and 3 cups cookie crumbs until well blended.
SHAPE into 48 (1-inch) balls. Dip in melted chocolate; place on waxed paper-covered baking sheet. Sprinkle with remaining cookie crumbs.
REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until firm. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Sugar Cookies and Frosting

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

Every year around this time we send the "men" (hubby and all the boys) out to cut a Christmas tree. The "ladies" (my mom, myself, and the girls) stay home and bake sugar cookies. Some years we bake them from scratch, some years we buy a boxed cookie mix. This recipe is our favorite to make them from scratch! The frosting recipe is also a family favorite passed on to us by a dear friend. Can't wait to taste those yummy, fresh baked cookies! Of course we'll decorate them with cinnamon candies, sprinkles, jimmies, and icing!

Sugar Cookies

2 1/2 c. flour
1/2 t. baking soda
3/4 t. salt
1/2 c. butter (room temp.)
1 egg
1/2 c. shortening
1 c. granulated sugar
1 t. vanilla
2 T. milk (room temp.)

Sift together flour, soda and salt. Set aside. Cream together butter, shortening, sugar and vanilla. Add egg. Mix until fluffy. Stir in dry ingredients until smooth. Blend in milk.

Drop by teaspoonful onto greased cookie sheets. Flatten with bottom of glass which has been dipped in sugar.

Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes. Cool and if you desire frost with frosting and any sugars or sprinkles you like.

Frosting

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter
2 t. vanilla flavoring
2 pounds Confectioners sugar
milk

Beat the first three ingredients well then slowly add the sugar. I used my KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Add a little bit of milk at a time. Just enough until it's to the right consistency. Sorry it's not specific, but some things in the kitchen you just need to eyeball! The secret to fluffy bakery-like frosting is to beat it enough so you don't have a grainy texture.

Preparing for the Holidays: "Slow Down"

2011-12-07T10:00:00.012-05:00

* * *

This week's chapter in Queen of the Castle is titled "Slow Down". Lynn, the author, suggests "slowing down this Christmas. Slow it down by praying over which Christmas activities we should participate in." No matter how much we try to prepare things get crazy and busy and crazy-busy! As you can imagine with a new baby and the Christmas approaching I'm in the middle of crazy-busy right now!

Here are some suggestions from Lynn to "Slow it Down!"

*Spend a few minutes outside, bundled up against the cold.

*Make Christmas music as a family. If anyone plays an instrument (even badly), bring it out. Sing some carols.

*Work on a holiday jigsaw puzzle.

*Pull out holiday videos or photos from years past and reminisce.

*If you happen to be awake between 1 and 3 a.m. on December 12, check out the meteors in the night sky. Look south to see the Geminid shower of fifty to eighty meteors per hour. (I read that the 14th is peak for this.)

*Stare into the fire and spend some silent, thankful moments thinking about all God has done for you.

- - -

"Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

December Menu Plan

2011-12-04T14:15:00.000-05:00

It's a few days late, but better a bit late than never, right? I've had it on my desk in handwritten form for a week or so, but time slips away with a new little one to care for, children to school, crafts to make for Christmas, and all the other Holiday activities that take up time. Enjoy!

December Menu Plan

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Seven Layer Salad

2011-12-03T10:00:00.002-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

We're going to a Christmas party this evening so I'm taking this salad. It's so yummy. Enjoy!

Seven Layer Salad

Prepare the following ingredients and layer in a large dish.
(I use a large rectangle Tupperware that way all layers are
spread out and everyone can get a taste of all the layers.)

1 head of lettuce washed and torn in small pieces
1 green pepper diced
1 1/2 cup diced onion
10 oz. bag frozen green peas (cooked, drained, and cooled)
Mix together 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise and 2 T. sugar
1 1/2 cups mild cheddar cheese
1 lb. bacon cooked and crumbled

(Sometimes I add some chopped raw broccoli and cauliflower in with the peas...making it more than a seven layer salad. That's o.k., though, I don't think anyone will count. *wink* )

Let it sit overnight. Drain before serving if necessary. Toss together lightly.

Homemade Gift Ideas

2011-12-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

When I sat down last month to tally my list of who needed gifts I found the list kept getting longer and longer. And I wasn't even talking about my immediate family! There are neighbors, friends, the post man, garbage man, various teachers, etc. who need a little something special for Christmas. I know some of them may get paid by you already, but it's such a nice gesture to give a little something for Christmas. The best thing to give are consumables! Consumables are something that won't be setting around their home or office collecting dust! They are things they will use (consume) and enjoy! Here are a few suggestions...

*Gift mixes Spiced chai! (You all saw that one coming, didn't you? *wink*) One batch can fill 5-6 half pint sized canning jars. Simply trace a circle of pretty paper with the canning jar lid and place it on the lid, then cover the lid with the band. Tie a ribbon around it, attach a gift tag and voila! If you don't have extra canning jars and don't want to spend the money to buy them put the mix in a baggie and put it in a decorative bag. Better yet, buy a package of brown or white paper lunch sacks. Rubber stamp with a pretty Christmas design, trim the top with some decorative paper scissors, fold over the top, punch two holes at the top about 1/2 inch apart and pull ribbon through. Tie a bow and you're all set!

Make up batches of Taco Mix, Chili Mix or find any recipe that uses herbs and such and make up a mix. Don't forget to add the recipe! You can use snack size baggies or buy food safe cellophane bags to package those. Put them in smaller lunch bags and decorate the same as above.

*Cookies Have a family baking day and mix up several batches of cookies. Package them up in paper bags like the mixes above or buy inexpensive tins to package them in. Some of our favorites include: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip, Cake Mix Cookies, and Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookie.

*Other Treats Cookies are fun, but it's also nice to include some fun treats. Like Chocolatey Oat Bars, Peanut Butter Balls, Spiced Pumpkin Fudge, and Cracker Cookies. There are other yummy recipes on the Miscellaneous Dessert page that would be fun to give, too.

*Soap Handmade soaps are a wonderful gift to give! You have to make at least 2-3 weeks in advance so the soap has time to cure, but that will be all the more time you have to enjoy the holidays because you're not busy making gifts on the 23rd to pass out on the 24th! Here's my tutorial on making hand made soap HERE. Or you can make it easy on yourself and order it at my Etsy site HERE.

There are endless possibilities for small, inexpensive gift ideas! Learn how to do a craft and give those for Christmas! If you're a bit behind already this year maybe make a goal to make your own gifts next year!

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One Month Old!

2011-12-01T19:10:00.000-05:00

Seems like just yesterday little man was born! I can't believe he's one month old already! I can't believe Christmas is 24 days away! Phew! Time sure flies when you're having fun! My mom, a few kiddos, and I did a little photo shoot today and thought you might enjoy some picture updates of the little bundle of cuteness!

Happy December, everyone!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Christmas is Here! Last-Minute Ideas"

2011-11-30T10:00:00.021-05:00

* * *

This week's chapter in Queen of the Castle is titled "Christmas is Here! Last-Minute Ideas". Author Lynn Bowen Walker shares a few fun stories about past gingerbread house bombs. She lets us in on a little secret -- graham crackers! Our family has never made gingerbread houses. I don't even go there. I know my limits. Instead we have a blast rolling, cutting and decorating sugar cookies. A few years in a row we made gingerbread cookies until I wised up and realized that no one...not. a. one. likes gingerbread. Well except me, but I really don't need to eat 4 dozen gingerbread men, women, and children. So we decided to make sugar cookie cut-outs from scratch. It was back-breaking mixing and rolling, etc., so I've had yet another realization that we will decorate cut-out cookies we use good 'ol Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix from now on. It makes the process ten times easier. Yes, I love home made sugar cookies but if you want someone other than Oscar the Grouch in the kitchen then try the mix. It's o.k., really. *wink*

Now, if you really are planning on gingerbread houses, Lynn suggests the following essentials: graham crackers, tubs of white frosting (you'll need glue of some sort!), and lots of decorations such as M&M's, jelly beans, chocolate chips, Tootsie Rolls, gumdrops, Life Savers, Tic Tacs, mini marshmallows. There are a gazillion possibilities!

Lynn also suggests a cookie swap for some baking variety in your home. I've always thought that was a great idea! I may have to do that some time...

Lynn also suggests to start thinking about inexpensive gifts for babysitters, teachers, neighbors, etc. Hand made gifts are great and I personally think consumable gifts are the best. Jams, jellies, cookies, breads, treats, soaps, bath salts, etc. are great! It's something someone will use...if not the receiver of the gift then certainly someone in their home. Check out my soaps for sale on my etsy site HERE.

Lynn shares a few reminders of things that need to be done and soon!

*Mail Christmas packages

*Put card writing into high gear

*Wrap gifts as you purchase them. Save receipts in one place. (I've got a lot of shopping done, but none wrapped. I need to get on that soon! Or I'll end up being a night owl a few days before Christmas...we don't want that!)

*Make wrapping paper. Use brown paper bags, old Christmas cards, etc. (Since early fall we've been asking for brown paper bags...a few rubber stamps and ink and there ya go!)

*Wrap gifts with oversized artwork your kids may have made at school.

*Start Advent wreaths or calendars. (My tutorial is HERE and they are for sale HERE... just sayin' *wink*)

*Buy extra nylons if you're attending any dress-up holiday parties. (Tights for your little girls, too!)

*Make sure the kiddos have appropriate clothes for whatever outings you have planned. (If everyone but little Lucy has a Christmas shirt she'll feel a little left out...better make a list and check it twice!)

*Plan Christmas menus. (I plan on posting my December menu here soon...and a Christmas menu post, too!)

*Get kids to help decorate. (This year everyone helped! This is our Thanksgiving weekend tradition!)

Enjoy the next month or so of activities...

soak it all in and enjoy it with your family like it was your

first and your last Christmas.

- - -

"So Jesus said to the twelve, 'You do not want to go away also, do you?'

Simon Peter answered Him, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.

We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.'"

John 6:67-69

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Christmas Kitchen Decor

2011-11-29T10:00:00.021-05:00

Since a lot of you have begun or have already begun to decorate for Christmas this week's tip (well...tips...there are several that I love!) is from Gooseberry Patch's Farmhouse Christmas Cookbook.

Homemade shortbread cookies tied with colorful ribbon look beautiful hanging in your windowpanes.

* * *

Dress up your holiday table for winter...use whimsical mittens to hold your napkins and silverware and lay woolen scarves across the table to serve as placemats. Enamelware plates and cups add a rustic charm.

* * *

A muffin tin filled with votives, tea lights tucked into pudding molds and candles hidden inside an old-fashioned grater make a wonderful tabletop display. Add some gingerbread men, fragrant evergreen boughs and vintage kitchen utensils.

* * *

String small nutmeg graters on a set of white lights for your kitchen garland!

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Cyber Monday Sale!

2011-11-28T12:03:00.001-05:00

Enjoy 11% off today only at my Etsy Shop with coupon code CYBERMONDAY. Go HERE now!!

Turkey Leftovers!

2011-11-25T14:37:00.000-05:00

I love a turkey dinner left over once in a while, but after a day or so it gets a little old. Am I right? Here's a lovely way (and reposted recipe by the way) to use up some left over turkey that won't make your family groan when they come to the table.

Turkey and Rice Soup

16 cups turkey or chicken stock *
3-4 cups chopped turkey (or chicken)
4 carrots, thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups brown rice (uncooked)
1/2 cup dried parsley
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper
a sprinkling of rosemary (about 1/2 tsp)
a sprinkling of thyme (about 1/2 tsp)

Combine ingredients in a very large crock pot (I use a 6.5 Qt.) and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 5-6.

*If I don't have stock on hand I'll use a few cans of chicken broth and then either chicken bouillon granules (follow the directions on the jar for adequate measurement) or chicken base (usually 1 tsp. per 1 cup of hot water) to make up the difference. Chicken base comes in a jar, is thick and creamy in texture and is cheaper per ounce than bouillon granules. I'm not a big fan of the cubes. All that unwrapping puts a cramp on my cooking time. The downside is that the chicken base makes a greasier soup.

photo credit

Preparing for the Holidays: "Thanksgiving, Part 2"

2011-11-23T10:00:00.019-05:00

* * *

"Thanksgiving, Part 2" from Queen of the Castle is today's title. Lynn shares the following story..."One year in an attempt to make Thanksgiving more meaningful, we asked dinner guests to write on a piece of paper what they were most thankful for. Later, sitting around the table, we read the slips aloud. "One more year," read the shaky script of my husband's elderly grandmother." Wow. What a wonderful reminder to be thankful for all things! "God has given us so many blessings. All that we have is from Him. One more year. Blessed be the name of the Lord."

Lynn shares a few ideas to promote thankfulness:

*Find Bible verses that focus on praise and promises from Jesus. Write the verses on small slips of paper, roll them into tiny scrolls, and insert them into homemade rolls before baking. At Thanksgiving dinner, have each person break into the roll and read his "thankfulness fortune" out loud before the blessing. (From Meg Cox's The Heart of a Family: Searching America for New Traditions That Fulfill Us)

*Listen to a praise CD at breakfast. A Classic Thanksgiving: Songs of Praise is a peaceful, uplifting CD that includes some wonderful hymns and classical pieces.

*Read aloud a favorite psalm before dinner.

*Go around the table and have each person share something they're thankful for using the letters T-H-A-N-K-S-G-I-V-I-N-G.

- - -

"Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the Lord, He is God; it is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations." Psalm 100:1-5

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Turkey Broth Tip

2011-11-22T10:00:00.006-05:00

Put a slow cooker to work turning the leftovers of the holiday bird into flavorful broth for soup.

Place the bones in a large slow cooker; breaking to fit if necessary. Add onion, celery, carrots and enough water to fill 2/3 full. Cover and cook on low for about 10 hours. Strain broth with a colander and refrigerate or freeze. It'll be the best-tasting broth ever!

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Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Cinnamon Rolls

2011-11-21T10:00:00.001-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

Cinnamon Rolls

Dough:
1 T. dry yeast
1 C. warm milk
1/3 C. white sugar
1/2 C. melted butter
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
4 C. flour
Dissolve yeast in warm milk. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. Knead into a ball. Let rise until double in size. When ready, roll out to about 1/4 inch thick. Spread with filling.

Filling:
1/4 C. butter, softened
1 C. brown sugar
3 T. cinnamon

Spread butter on dough evenly. Sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over dough evenly. Roll dough up. Slice roll into 1 inch slices. Place on a greased pan. Let rise again until doubled. bake 10 min. at 400 degrees.

Icing:
1/2 C. butter, softened
1 1/2 C. powdered sugar
1 oz. cream cheese
2 T. whipping cream
1 tsp. vanilla extract
pinch of salt

Beat until fluffy. When rolls are hot, spread lots of icing on them.

If baking in the morning make the dough, let rise, then make the rolls. Instead of letting them rise again, just wrap them up and put in the fridge. The next morning put them in the oven while it's preheating. When the oven is preheated start the timer. Makes a 9x13 pan...about 16-18 scrumptious rolls!

Pie!

2011-11-18T10:00:00.001-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

Pie Filling Recipes

Baking a pie is pretty easy, really. You have to have the right crust recipe (Sour Cream Pie Crust from Monday's post!) and a great filling. We have a cherry tree in our yard so cherry pie is easy to come by at our house. We package several quart bags for the freezer for cherry crisp, cherry pie, etc. We go blueberry picking each summer to stock our freezer with yummy local grown blueberries. We purchase peaches from a local Amish stand or if the prices at the grocer are really good, then we go there. Point being that making your own fruit pie filling is pretty easy and good for you, too!

Combine together the following ingredients for each kind of pie:

Apple Pie Filling = 6 cups apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced), 3/4 cup sugar, 1 T flour

Blueberry Pie Filling = 4 cups blueberries, 3/4 cup sugar, 3 T flour

Cherry Pie Filling = 4 cups cherries (tart and pitted), 1 1/4 cups sugar, 1/4 cup flour

Peach Pie Filling = 6 cups peaches (peeled, pitted and thinly sliced), 3/4 cup sugar, 3 T flour

Equivalents:
Apples 1 medium = 1 cup sliced
Peaches 1 medium = 1/2 cup sliced

Samuel Thomas -- 2 weeks

2011-11-17T10:00:00.024-05:00

This post isn't a recipe by any means, but equally scrumptious (in my opinion, anyway!). My mom and I had fun snapping a few pictures the other day. Enjoy!

My dear friend Kelly made this lovely little pumpkin hat for him.

Isn't he cute?!

I love this one!

Scrumptious, I tell ya!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Thanksgiving, Part 1"

2011-11-16T10:00:00.001-05:00

* * *

This week is simply titled "Thanksgiving, Part 1". Lynn begins by sharing advice from Julia Child..."If you are not an old campaigner, do not plan more than one long or complicated recipe for a meal or you will wear yourself out and derive no pleasure from your efforts." Great advice! I posted my Thanksgiving menu plan (last year) HERE and it is definitely more simple than not.

Lynn shares a great reminder that "Thanksgiving is not a competition. It's a time to gather with family we love and give thanks to our Father, who is the giver of all good gifts. A Father who loves me no matter what -- even if I use store-bought pie crust." (I don't use store-bought (I share my recipe HERE) but that doesn't mean you can't...whatever works for your family! Remember I told you in the menu plan post that I'll probably make Pillsbury cinnamon rolls for breakfast? That works for us...)

We're not hosting anyone in particular for Thanksgiving. It'll be just my husband, my mom, our kiddos and myself. Of course we always make room for any last minute guests. We may have the kiddos' piano teacher over since he just lost his sister and I'm not sure he'll be going anywhere. Be flexible...that's my point. Either way get the china out a day or two before and make sure it's all clean and your serving bowls and relish trays are ready. Our kiddos think it's fun that even though it's just the ten of us we still make it a special day.

Lynn shares three quick ideas to fancy up your table:

*Look for chocolate turkey lollipops or something else that's fun to place next to each person's silverware.

*Hand your kids a packet of photograph "doubles", have them cut out the heads of the guests who are coming for dinner, then glue the heads onto cardboard to make holiday place cards. If they're feeling especially silly (and if family members are silly enough to appreciate it), have them attach heads to bodies of people and animals cut from old magazines -- the wilder, the better. (From Sarah Ban Breathnach's Mrs. Sharp's Traditions)

*Try folding napkins. Martha has three easy napkin folds HERE and a cute but more advanced turkey napkin fold HERE. (We will be using fun paper ones that day, however. I know my limits! *smile*)

- - -

"Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus,

giving thanks through Him to God the Father." Colossians 3:17

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: One Dish Meals

2011-11-15T10:00:00.002-05:00

A while back a dear friend had just had her fourth baby and requested I share some one dish meals with her. I posted this then and thought it was appropriate for our family with the arrival of blessing number eight. I thought you all might be able to use the recommendations as well. A lot of my meals can be made into one dish meals. I'll list the link with the name so just click on the name of the dish to take you to the recipe. I'll also share any ideas that I have to go with those recipes.

Simple Roast To go along with this you can put some red potatoes and green beans in the crock pot with it.

Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Add some raw green beans to the crock pot in with the chicken. Make some of these (Smashed Potatoes) to go along with it. Use this tip for the potatoes.

Cheesy Hashbrown Potatoes Like it says in the post, add chopped up ham or chicken to make it a main dish. Steam some veggies and you have a meal!

Easy Cheesy Bean Dip Stir in some ground beef and serve with Mexican rice, beans, sour cream and salsa (use some good veggie filled salsa!) and you have a meal!

Chicken Pot Pie is great all by itself! It takes a bit of work, but if you make a few at one time, eat one and freeze the rest you are all set for a few more meals!

Easy Peasy Chops This dish is a another one where you can do the smashed potatoes (see above) and steam some veggies and you're all set.

Creamy Chicken and Noodle Casserole Add some cooked mixed veggies to this and you have a one meal dish! Serve with some yummy rolls!

Chicken Burritoes You can make a few batches of these, bake them and then freeze the leftovers for another meal! Serve with rice, beans, salsa and sour cream.

Rigatoni Casserole This dish has meat, veggies (assuming you use a good sauce), carbs (*smile*)...the total package! Pop some garlic bread in the oven and you're all set!

Chili Serve with crackers and corn bread!

Chicken Tetrazzini Again, like the chicken and noodles...add veggies! Serve with bread!

Duggar's Taco Soup

Easy Beef and Noodles Serve with rolls!

Pioneer Beef Stew Serve with rolls! (Do you see a bread trend here? LOL!)

I hope those help! I'm searching for some more great crock-pot one dish meals for our family since we have a few more busy days this fall. I have a Gooseberry Patch cookbook that I'm perusing now!

Like these one-dish ideas? Click the "Like" button below to share them with friends on Facebook!

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Sour Cream Pie Crust

2011-11-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

This is the best pie crust ever! You can mix this crust by hand or blitz it in the food processor!

Sour Cream Pie Crust

3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 T. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 3/4 cups cold unsalted butter, cut up
2/3 cups ice cold water
2 T. sour cream
1 tsp. vinegar

In a very large bowl combine flour, sugar, salt and baking powder. Cut in butter leaving pea sized chunks.

In a 2 cup glass measuring cup whisk water, sour cream, and vinegar; pour, all at once into flour mixture, and quickly distribute then Stop!! (that's what it says...Stop!)

Make sure dough is slightly crumbly. Divide dough mixture into 3 equal portions (about 12-13 oz. each). Refrigerate for 2 hours. (You can keep it in the fridge over night if you like.) DO NOT OVERMIX. You're going to finish the dough by hand. The finished dough should break, not stretch.

Gently knead the dough in a bag to bring dough together. Form into discs. (This makes three single pie crusts.)

Use at once or wrap and store in the fridge for a few days or freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge if you froze it.

Coming Friday...pie filling recipes!

Gooseberry Patch Giveaway Winner!

2011-11-13T15:00:00.000-05:00

Congrats to "Life, Family, and Food" who won the Gooseberry Patch Christmas Planner and Merry Mixes book giveaway! I have sent you an email with details.

* * *

Thanks so much for all who entered!

Be on the lookout for another giveaway soon! And don't forget when we get to 1000 Facebook fans by Christmas we'll have a really nice giveaway!

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Ollie Kookins

2011-11-11T10:00:00.005-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! Enjoy!

"Ollie what?" you say? Well you'd have to have known my grandma. She and grandpa owned a cottage on a lake in northern Michigan. Whenever we'd go there Grandma had some of her famous (well, famous with our family, anyway!) Ollie Kookins (pronounced oh-lee kook-ens) ready and waiting for me --er, I mean us! I kick myself for not writing this recipe down anywhere...grr!! But when you're young and enjoying life, you don't think about grandma not being there anymore to bake for you. So this is the closest I could find to a recipe (with a few tweaks).

We enjoy this fried up treat this time of year as well as all year long. We'll probably be whipping some up this weekend!

Ollie Kookins

1 pkg. active dry yeast
1 tsp. sugar
1/4 c. warm water
2 1/4 c. flour (I use unbleached all purpose)
1 1/2 c. raisins
1 c. warm milk (100-110 degrees)
1/4 c. sugar
1 egg, beaten
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
oil (in a deep fryer)
1 c. powdered sugar

Dissolve yeast with one teaspoon sugar and water -- let it sit for about 10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the next 8 ingredients until well blended; add yeast mixture. Cover and let rise for one hour. Drop 2 tablespoonfuls of dough into hot oil in a deep fryer; fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Roll in powdered sugar. Serve immediately for the best of yummyness! Microwave to reheat. Makes about 2 dozen.

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!
Ends tomorrow at midnight (EST)!

Advent Garland Giveaway!

2011-11-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

This is a repost with a twist! Brandy, over at Love to Learn is hosting a giveaway! The prize? One of my Advent Garland sets! Read on for directions but be sure to stop by Brandy's and enter! Giveaway ends at noon on Nov. 16th.

I'm so excited to share this craft with ya'll! I made this a week or so ago when we were all a little under the weather. I had lots of little helpers in the dining room...they were stamping their own goodies while I was making this. It was (as a good friend says) "Big Fun"! If you aren't feeling super crafty I have a set for sale over at my etsy site.

I bought two packs of small brown kraft bags at Michael's coupon!).

I cut the top of 25 bags with scalloped decorative scissors.

(I know some families start Advent right after Thanksgiving but we start

Dec. 1st...that's just the way we've done it. If you want to start the last Sunday of November then adjust accordingly but if you purchase my set it will be with numbers 1 to 25.)

Then I punched 25 1 1/2 " red circles. And 25 1 3/8" kraft cardstock circles.

Using four different types of background Christmas paper I cut 25 2" squares.

I stamped the numbers 1 through 25 in red ink on the kraft circles. I mounted those in the center of the red circles. Then I mounted those in the center of the squares. Make sure you alternate the background colors.

Then I folded the top scallop down about 3/4".

Next I put seven of the same treats in each bag...but different treats for each day. (For us Dec. 1st might have seven Smarties, Dec. 2nd might have seven Hershey's Kisses, etc..)

(We have eight children...if you have two kiddos then use two treats.)

Place a Scripture reading slip in each bag (make sure you put the right number in the proper bag).

You can download mine and print below.

Advent Scripture Reading

Then hang a line of yarn or jute twine on windows. I used my living room and office room windows. (They are connected rooms so I felt it flowed fine that way.) That way they are out of reach of little hands but can still be seen! Use clothes pins to hang the bags. I used regular clothespins for this picture but I'll use mini clothespins when I can get to the store to get them. They're much cuter that way. If you buy my set you'll get mini clothespins.

There you go! A fun and inexpensive way to celebrate the Advent!

Make this yourself or purchase it HERE!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Company's Coming! Hospitality"

2011-11-09T10:00:00.019-05:00

A long time ago (not that long ago, but it seems that way for me) I did a series featuring the book Queen of the Castle. I thought since baby is here (I'm scheduling these posts out ahead of time) that I'd recap the holiday part of the book. So every Wednesday you'll get some great tips on prepping your heart and home for the holidays.

* * *

Week 46 is titled "Company's Coming! Hospitality". Lynn, the author, shares an excerpt from a book Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren F. Winner. "Well, now. I probably shouldn't have curdling milk in the fridge if I'm inviting someone over for tea, and it might be nice if I emptied the kitchen trash can and didn't leave dirty clothes all over the bathroom floor. But to be a hostess, I'm going to have to surrender my notions of "Good Housekeeping" domestic perfection. I will have to set down my pride and invite people over even if I have not dusted. This is tough: My mother set a high standard. Her house is always immaculate, most especially if she's expecting company. But if I wait for immaculate, I will never have a guest."

Is it worth fussing and fitting with your kiddos to get the house perfect? Can we just tidy up a bit and call it a day? "Hospitality is not about trying to impress or compete to see who's the best housekeeper or the best cook. It's simply about opening the home God has given us, grand or humble, and welcoming others in."

Lynn reminds us of the story in I Kings 17, "...where a widow in the midst of a drought, down to her last bit of oil and flour, reluctantly opens her home to a hungry house guest. "I can't feed you," she tells Elijah at first. "In fact, my son and I are about to eat the last of our own food, and then we're ready to die." "Don't be afraid," Elijah answers. "God says your bowl of flour and jar of oil won't ever be empty until we have rain again." The widow did as Elijah directed, making him a bread cake and then asking one for herself and her son. And "the bowl of flour was not exhausted nor did the jar of oil become empty, according to the word of the Lord which He spoke through Elijah" (I Kings 17:16)."

Whether we enjoy hot dogs and macaroni and cheese or a roast and all the fixings the attitude makes all the difference. We need to pray and ask God to show us how to have a servant's heart.

With Thanksgiving near I thought I'd share with you some easy ways to make your guests feel welcome.

*It's a great idea to have a basket of toys that little ones can play with. Some books and board games for different ages are a great idea, too.

*Make sure you have a place to put coats and such...squeezing them in a coat closet can be cumbersome. We have a mudroom but not a lot of extra hooks. Hubby's to do list now has this suggestion. We often us the master bed as a place to throw coats if there's a large crowd.

The following tips are geared toward those having overnight guests:

*If you have overnight company make sure the room they are staying in has proper window treatments. Especially if you have a yard light outside the window. They may prefer total darkness.

*Then again, they may like a little night light. Have one plugged in and on. If they want it off they can turn it off.

*Make sure they have proper bedding and some extra blankets in case they get chilly. An extra set of sheets on hand is nice, too, in case little ones have accidents at night.

*Have a snack basket in the room if the kitchen is far away. Fill it with granola bars, pretzels, crackers, and a few chocolate treats. If you like you can add a small cooler with bottled water and juice. That way if they get up early they can snack and not starve until breakfast.

*Make sure their room has a place for clothes storage. Even if they are living out of their bags they are probably going to need to hang up some shirts. An over the door hook might be a nice addition.

*Have towels and washcloths handy so they don't need to search for them.

*Also make sure the bathroom is fully stocked with toilet paper, soap, shampoo, and other toiletries you think they might need. They would feel embarrassed if they had to wake you in the middle of the night because they had no toilet paper. And I'm sure you wouldn't want to be wakened for a TP call at 3 a.m.. *wink*

For more on hospitality Rhonda has great advice over at Raising Homemakers HERE and HERE.

- - -

"Do not forget to entertain strangers,
for by so doing some people have

entertained angels without knowing it."
Hebrews 13:2

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Kitchen Tip Tuesday: Little Helpers

2011-11-08T10:00:00.008-05:00

(This is a repost from earlier this year and I thought it was so appropriate with our new baby in the house and with the holidays coming up!)

Let the kiddos help out in the kitchen!*

Little ones (ages 2-5) can scrub veggies, pass out napkins, help set the table.

Older kiddos (ages 6-9) can help measure, shred (carefully!), stir, crack eggs, and oversee the littlest ones in their preparations.

The oldest ones (ages 10 and up) can chop, read a recipe, prepare a dish by themselves, help with meal planning and even help with grocery shopping. Help the older ones see the importance of unit pricing, buying in bulk, shopping sales and using coupons.

It may be difficult and even stressful at first but after a while it will be such a blessing! Meals and memories will be made.

The kitchen is the heart of the home!

*These are all guidelines and should be to the parent's discretion.

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Old House Kitchen Christmas Favorites: Baked Mushrooms

2011-11-07T10:00:00.002-05:00

With a new baby in our midst we are trying to soak up as much cuddling time as we can so I thought it would be fun to share our family's favorite Christmas recipes! I'll kick it off with one of our favorite side dishes! Enjoy!

Baked Mushrooms

1/2 stick butter
1 lb. container mushrooms (sliced)
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 block cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese

Melt butter in a skillet. Saute mushrooms with salt and pepper until tender. Stir in cream cheese until melted and carefully blended well with the mushrooms. Pour into a small baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top and bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes or until melted, bubbly and slightly browned. Enjoy!

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Welcome Little Man!

2011-11-05T15:10:00.000-04:00

Samuel Thomas

November 1, 2011

5:46 p.m.

8 lbs. 4 oz.

21 inches long

Still cooking! *smile*

Proud Papa!

Proud Mama!

So happy to finally meet our newest little bundle of blessings!

* * *

And I'd also like to say "Congrats!" to...

Rhonda (rhondaree1958@yahoo.com) who guessed that our little blessing would arrive on Nov. 1st.

Shoot me an email and I'll get your cookbook off to you in the mail. Well, I won't, because...well...I'm otherwise occupied with this little one, but Amazon will be happy to do it for me. *wink*

Preparing for the Holidays: "Keeping Christ in Christmas"

2011-11-05T10:00:00.001-04:00

A long time ago (not that long ago, but it seems that way for me) I did a series featuring the book Queen of the Castle. I thought since baby is here (or will be here soon...I'm scheduling these posts out) that I'd recap the holiday part of the book. So every Wednesday you'll get some great tips on prepping your heart and home for the holidays.
(I know this isn't Wednesday, but I wanted to stick this in the mix because it's very important!)

* * *

For those of you playing along...(if you've just joined us you can get caught up a bit here) we are on week 45 of the book Queen of the Castle: 52 weeks of encouragement for the uninspired, domestically challenged or just plain tired homemaker.

This week's chapter is "Keeping Christ in Christmas". Decorating, gifts, visiting with family and friends is how most of us spend our Christmas celebration time. It's fun but we don't want to squeeze Christ right out of Christmas. Author Lynn writes "I will have enough time to meditate on Jesus and His coming if I begin early, before the season creeps up on me like a stealthy teenager ready to pounce from a darkened laundry room with a heart-stopping "BOO!". These weeks really are a time of preparing our hearts..."

Lynn shared that she went through a Bible study on Luke during Christmas. Might I suggest Beth Moore's Jesus, the One and Only to prepare your hearts for this time of year and to focus on why He came. Lynn suggests reading a chapter of Luke each day of December, ending with the last chapter, chapter 24, on Christmas Eve.

Here are a few more suggestions:

*Purchase an Advent calendar. Look for one that has the Nativity scene with Scripture readings behind each window. Or you can do something super simple like I have on my etsy site HERE.

*Read about Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), a perfect story for this time of year when our preoccupation with to-do lists can crowd out time with God. Like Mary, we need to listen at his feet...even if it means not getting all the cards out in the mail.

*Consider how your Christmas tree decorations can point to Christ. Select symbols that tell the Christmas story or are a reminder of Christ's life: angels, bells, candy canes, lambs, hearts, doves, candles, stars. Top it off with a crown of thorns to really emphasize the meaning of Christmas.

*Play Christmas carols that tell the story of Christ. Focus on the words. (Last year we listened a lot to one of the radio stations that played all sorts of Christmas...some good, some I remember from my child hood, and some just plain silly. I don't think I'll be doing that this year. For our family it seemed to take away the focus on Christ.)

*Start praying now for your family to focus on the real reason behind this season; not the gifts, the decor, the yummy treats. Focus on Him.

I'll end this post with a message from Lynn...
If you've never asked God into your life, to forgive you of your sins and make you His child, you can do it right now. It doesn't take special, fancy words. All it takes is a humble heart that's willing to admit that you miss the mark, that you are not perfect, that you are a sinner. You recognize that He is holy, that you cannot live up to His standard of holiness, and that you need Him. You recognize that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to take the punishment that should have been yours, for your sin. And you want His forgiveness. You want Him to be in charge of your life from now on. You accept the gift of eternal life He offers you through Jesus Christ. That's it. It's as simple as that.

- - -

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness,

and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Preparing for the Holidays: "Planning Ahead for a More Relaxed Christmas"

2011-11-02T10:00:00.020-04:00

* * *

For those of you playing along...(if you've just joined us you can get caught up a bit here) we are on week 44 of the book Queen of the Castle: 52 weeks of encouragement for the uninspired, domestically challenged or just plain tired homemaker.

This week's chapter is titled "Planning Ahead for a More-Relaxed Christmas". We've all had crazy harried Christmas seasons I'm sure. I have had plenty to last me a lifetime. I started visiting Organized Christmas several years ago. (I'll explain the program in a minute.) The last few years, however, I didn't. Boy was my season busy...crazy busy. Like wrapping presents until 2 a.m. the day before Christmas Eve kind of crazy busy. Lynn, the author, suggests getting started ahead of time. Organized Christmas (a free online planner program) has several "programs" to get you organized....four to be exact. I chose the one that started in September. That's what I've done in the past and it's a great way to get started. Don't fret if you're just thinking about Christmas now...there's something for you, too!

Lynn has several tips for a happy and peaceful holiday season. I'll share a few here with you along with several of my own.

*Send out packages early and when choosing gifts to send make sure they are light ones and unbreakable. Think CDs, books, calendars (I like to make a picture calendar for our parents and hubby's grandma who lives far away. I also include some recent pics of the kiddos for her picture frames, too.

*Don't fret over the Christmas cards. Remember most people throw them away after the season is over so if you make them...one card should not take you an hour to complete. The point is to wish them a Merry Christmas. Maybe you'd like to throw in a letter letting folks know what's going on around your house? Maybe a picture? Remember KISS...Keep It Simple Sweeties! Oh, and Christmas stamps went on sale a few weeks ago.

*Make homemade gifts in advance. As yummy as they are DO NOT make chocolates and cookies a few days before Christmas! Besides being short on time, you have all sorts of little sweets beckoning you.    Instead make jams or jellies in the summer when produce is ripe. Make bread or cookies and bake them ahead of time and freeze. Make gift mixes. Seasoning mixes, coffee mixes, or cookies mixes (you get the idea) can be made a month or so ahead and stored in a dry, cool closet or cupboard. Your hips will thank you!

*Make a list of gift recipients and a budget to go along with it and stick to it. Make sure to make extra gifts for unexpected people stopping by to bring you gifts as well.   Oh...and don't forget your mail carrier, news carrier, and sanitation workers.

*Think about the season and traditions. Do you want to spend a lot of time at home with family? Do you want to entertain? Do you want to experience more of the peace of Christmas and how will you do that? Do you want to have a Ms. Stewart sense of decorating style this season or do you want to lay low and put up a tree and village instead? Priorities...you have to set your priorities before going crazy with the busyness of the season.

*Take a family vote. What is important to the immediate family to experience? Do they really like to go look at lights or do they find it boring? Maybe a few of you could go and the rest stay home and enjoy something else that light-lookers don't enjoy.   What kind of holiday treats are a must? Our kiddos love baking and decorating Christmas cookies. I really don't care for making cutout cookie dough and then rolling, cutting and decorating so I buy a tube of the ready made dough to cut the time down. It's a win win for all!

*Check the holiday wardrobe. Make sure you and everyone else in the family are going to be fully clothed in holiday goodness for Aunt Sue's party way in advance. You don't want to show up in a sweater and black pants with white tennis shoes, do you?

*Stay focused on the reason for the season!

- - -

"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory,

glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:14

Can I get an Amen?!

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Say It Isn't Sew!

2011-11-01T10:00:00.010-04:00

I have been stumbling across some blogs lately. Quilting blogs. Oh they are so lovely, intricate, and dangerous all at the same time. You see, I had this idea in my head when we first got married that I was going to learn how to quilt. Hubby bought me a Singer sewing machine for our first anniversary gift. Don't worry. I asked for the sewing machine. So I totally didn't see it like a blender gift...you know...like on Father of the Bride? *wink* That Singer has since been replaced by an awesome Janome HD1000!! Yes, another gift requested by moi...Christmas a few years ago from my hubby and my mom. Love it!!! Anywho...back to my first quilting idea...

I thought I would start quilting so I put down a chunk of change for a quilting hoop, fabric scissors, rotary cutter, self-healing mat, quilting thread, needles, fabric galore, patterns...need I say more? I worked away at tracing and cutting out my pieces for four of the many blocks of this queen size quilt that I could just imagine draped across our bed. Well...after putting together the first few blocks its was um...obvious...quilting was not my thing. *sigh* So all of those quilting notions either sat and collected dust, got used over the years, or sold at a garage sale. Fast forward 16+ years and I have to say that this crafty mama has come a long way. That quilting fiasco was just enough to guide me into my crafting life. I am now a stamper, scrapbooker, stitcher, crafter of all things miscellaneous (there's not much I won't try at least...well, except for knitting. Can you say NOT happening?!). I now know how to handle my sewing machine. I know how to sew clothing...not that I find it very exciting (more like stressful)...but I know how to do it. Properly. Kinda. A-hem.

I've come a long way, but not long enough. Thinking about quilting again makes my palms sweat. Makes me weak in the knees. Makes me start biting my lip. Yes I do that. A lot. But. I have come across some blogs recently that are just begging me to give it a try. Again. Luring me to come back to that part of the crafting world. Calling my name in colors so beautiful that I just don't know how long I can resist. (There should be a self-help group for this, you know.) These fabrics and designs are just so beautiful that I have to share them with you! Ready? Hold on to your sewing machines!

I first came across Sweetwater and their lovely patterns about a month ago. I love their patterns, the fabrics, the style. Well, be prepared. I'm going to say that about all these ladies. *smile*

Isn't this bunting gorgeous?!

They have a book that I must have!
Sweetwater's Simple Home: Sew Something Handmade for Every Room

Then I came across Camille and her lovely fabrics and quilt designs...

She has a book out, too!
Simplify with Camille Roskelley: Quilts for the Modern Home
I need this one, too! If for nothing, but to drool over the fabrics and patterns.

Some gorgeous patterns by Camille.

This pattern is for a sewing machine cover. I think I'm going to have to make one some day, but in black, tan, and burgundy...you know the colors of my craft room.

How can you deny all these lovely fabrics?! **drool**

(Maybe what I need is just a few pretty shelves of fabric to stare at and I'll be o.k.? Naaaah.)

I also happened upon Figs Tree Quilts.

I love the color combinations!

(Sorry for such a small picture.)

And lastly, because I think some of you might have eyes glazing over in pure boredom here. This is a quilt I really need to make. Super cute!

All the ruffles! The colors! Love it!

O.K. I know I said "Lastly" but really..one more. Kimberly has some lovely things at

My Brown Bag Studio

She makes lots of lovelies like this...

and this...

Beautiful, huh? I can only dream of being so crafty!

O.K....ya'll can resume your normal lives now. Go on. Look for a recipe for dinner. Make some spiced chai. Peruse my menu plans. I'm done talking about it. For now. I think. *wink*

* * *

Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch

Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

All Grown Up...mostly

2011-10-31T09:20:00.008-04:00

Remember when our little goat baby, Pixie, was a wee little thing?

And she looked so little by her mama?

Then remember when Isaac won

Reserve Champion showing her this summer at the 4-H Doe Show?

Well this little girl is now almost as big as her mama!

She's grown up...kind of. Not full grown yet, but big

enough to melt my heart. *sniff, sniff*

I know this picture doesn't have anything to do with little miss Pixie,

but I thought it was a lovely shot I took the other morning as I was

walking in from helping the boys with the goats.

* * *
Don't forget to enter the Gooseberry Patch
Christmas Organizer and Merry Mixes Giveaway!

Gooseberry Patch Giveaway!

2011-10-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

Ready for another giveaway? I know I am!

"It's more blessed to give than to receive", right?

Well...we're giving!

One winner will receive a gift packet of a
Gooseberry Patch Christmas Planner

and Gooseberry Patch Merry Mixes (The Country Friends Collection)

Here's the scoop...

Entry 1
Leave me a comment sharing your favorite

homemade gift to give for Christmas.

(One entry)

Entry 2

Share the link for this giveaway on Facebook.

Just click on the Facebook "Like" button at the bottom of this post.

Leave a separate comment telling me so.

(Another entry)

Entry 3

Blog about this on your own site.

Leave the web addy in a separate comment.

(Another entry)

Please be sure you leave something that distinguishes you from other comments like "Carmen from northern Indiana" or your email address.

Giveaway starts NOW and ends Saturday November 12th at midnight (EST)!

**All entries need to be a separate comment for drawing purposes. I count up the total number of comments and then enter it into random.org. Random.org picks a number then I count down to that number in the comment section. If all entries are left in one comment unfortunately you will only get one entry.**

* * *

Oh and don't forget...my 20% off coupon code

BIRTHDAY20 ends Monday, October 31st.

CONTEST NOW CLOSED

THANKS FOR ALL WHO ENTERED!

Popcorn Balls

2011-10-28T10:00:00.000-04:00

I got an email a while back asking for a recipe for Popcorn Balls. My commitment here at Old House Kitchen is to only share recipes that are tried and true and pass the taste test of my large family. Sometimes I make an exception. This is that exception. I have been told by the sharer of this recipe, pinky promised, that these popcorn balls are awesome! I'm going to give it a go this weekend. You try it, too, and let me know what you think.

Popcorn Balls
3 quarts popped corn
1 c. sugar
1/2 c. corn syrup (light or dark)
1/3 c. water
1/4 c. butter
3/4 t.salt
3/4 t. vanilla

Combine sugar, corn syrup, water, butter and salt over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Cook without stirring until the syrup forms a soft ball (236 degrees). Add vanilla and pour the syrup slowly over the popped corn. Mix well so every piece is coated. Shape into balls with greased hands.

Makes about 12.

photo credit

Chalkboard Fun!

2011-10-27T10:00:00.001-04:00

I bought this lovely little tray several years ago with the intention to chalkboard paint it to write lovely little sayings on it.

Then I was lacking the chalkboard paint. Wouldn't it figure that Michael's didn't sell it? I've got to rant here for a moment. If you want to pass this paragraph and go to the next I won't be offended. My favorite craft store in the whole wide world is Hobby Lobby. Those are my peeps, right there! Part of it has to do with the fact that when I was a Stampin' Up demonstrator over 8 years ago I think every worker in the store had hosted a party at some point. Besides, sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name and they're always glad you came. (Do you hear music?) Me and Hobby Lobby are like that. Sorta. The only problem in my love affair with Hobby Lobby is it's forty-five minutes from my house...talk about a long distance relationship! If I go in our large 15 passenger van it's like $10 in gas just to go there and back! (I'm really not sure...I'm guessing, but I guess it's something close.) If I go in our car it's more than half that, but hubby has the car most of the time and when I go in the direction of Hobby Lobby I usually multi-task and take care of other errands which means I usually have some kiddos with me, which means that I have to take the van. So.. Other craft store options...JoAnn's. Well they're right down the road from Hobby Lobby. So that's no different. *sigh* What's a girl to do? I was so excited when Michael's moved into our area! It's about 20 minutes away, near the grocery stores we frequent, near my favorite Kohl's, and on hubby's way home from school so if I really need something and am really specific (He calls it "idiot proof"...he's not an idiot, just so you know...he's actually rather brilliant. Moving on...) he'll stop and pick it up for me. He'll even use a coupon for me! He's super awesome like that!

So...back to Michael's. Nope. No chalkboard paint. That's my problem with Michael's they don't carry what I need when I need it. *sigh* Guess where I got it? Just guess. Hubby knew I had been looking for chalkboard paint, saw some at Menard's and bought it for me! I told you he was brilliant!

Where was I? Oh yeah...back to the project! Phew I can really get sidetracked, can't I?

So. Being the impatient one that I am I didn't tape off the edges of the tray. Hubby always tapes everything off when he paints, but me? Nah...I'm wild like that. *wink* (Actually I'm not allowed to paint walls unless I'm using the roller...in the middle..."cutting in" is not on my list of things I do well.) So...I painted it and it looked like this....

Um...yeah. I'm thinking there may be something to that taping off business. *sigh*

Then I had a lovely little assistant "season" it by rubbing chalk all over the paint. (It had to dry for five days...oh the agony! I am not patient like that!) It was totally against my beliefs to totally mess it up like this...

But it had to be done. Then I rubbed the chalk around with a paper towel and then wiped it clean with a damp rag.

After it dried I got out my Chalk Ink Markers (in classic colors) and they have Earthy Colors (I loooove these!!) and decorated it. Like so!

Isn't it lovely? It only took me oh, like, 3 years to actually get down to business. *sigh* But, it's done and I'm so glad I did. Now, I think I'm going to go raid hubby's wood shop for more wood to paint. Every room needs a chalkboard (or two), right?

* * *

Like this project and want to share with friends? Click "Like" under this post.

Homemade Buns

2011-10-26T10:00:00.000-04:00

Homemade buns (this recipe found on cooks.com) are perfect for Creamy Chicken Sandwiches. Heavenly, I tell you! Give them a try!

Homemade Buns

1 c. boiling water
1/2 t. salt
1/4 c. sugar + 1/2 t. (divided)
1 T. shortening
1 pkg. yeast (2 1/4 t.)
1/2 t. sugar
4 c. flour
1 egg

Pour boiling water over sugar, salt and shortening. Mix yeast in a little water (lukewarm -- about 1/4 c.) Add 1/2 t. sugar. When first mixture is lukewarm, add yeast mixture. Stir in egg, and then flour. Let rise in a bowl covered with plastic wrap. Then roll in small balls in greased 9x13 baking dish. Let rise again (double in size). Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 15 minutes.

Enjoy!

Craft Room Update

2011-10-25T10:00:00.065-04:00

A while back (over a month ago!) I shared my frustrations with you HERE that I didn't have a space for crafting. I've done a bit of shopping, spray painting, tweaking and I think I have a good start.

*BEFORE*

*AFTER*

I spray painted an old chair burgundy and added a black seat cushion. Under the table I put a repurposed burgundy floor rug to keep my feet warm in the winter!

I found a set of three wall baskets at Shipshewana Flea Market. I hung them with masonary nails. Hubby knows I love old timey things (yes, I think I just made up a word) and since masonary nails look old timey he picked some up for me at the hardware store.

I hung these little keys on the basket with torn homespun fabric.

The lamp base was green so I spray painted it black and gave the shade a little face lift. I punched holes at (fairly) even intervals around the shade and then with the same black and tan homespun I wove it through.

Then I filled in the spaces with black buttons. I used glue dots to affix them. (I love glue dots!)

This is the door to my craft closet. I put black and white pics of some of the kiddos on each side of the door. I plan on adding a few more here and there. The sign above the door says "Inspiration Station"! I also put another black basket on the wall. It was a brown basket I bought for a quarter at a garage sale a while back so I spray painted it! (Most of the baskets are empty still...I'm sure they'll be filled in no time with fun crafty things!)

This is the inside of my closet. Hubby built those wonderful shelves for me last year for Christmas!

More shelf space! See the ladder there? It's on my craft to-do list. I'll share that with you when I get it done!

I am thinking about hanging some grapevine garland around the craft "room" above the doorways and add some pip berries and white lights. Not sure, yet. What do you think? Anything ya'll can think of to make this craft are a haven?

Fall Delights: Desserts

2011-10-24T10:00:00.000-04:00

I know some of the snack ideas that I shared last week could be used as a dessert, but today is definitely dessert ideas!

Caramel Crunch Apple Pie is a yummy blend of apple, caramel and crunch! Pair it with some ice cream and drizzle caramel sauce on top for the perfect dessert!

Pumpkin Pie Squares are a wonderful alternative to rolling out pie crusts for two pumpkin pies. It can feed a crowd or be saved for later. The crunchy crust is amazing!

If you're looking for a super simple fall dessert look no further. Butterscotch Bars use a box mix as the base to this wonderful fall-flavored dessert!

Fruit Crisp is so versatile. Wonderful with fruit of summer or just as amazing with ripe pears or apples from fall's bounty! Don't forget to top it with some ice cream! Homemade Ice Cream is the best!

Southern Fried Apples are another perfect summer or fall dessert! Again...don't forget the ice cream!

Impossible Pumpkin Pie is a wonderful alternative for those who don't like pie crust but love pumpkin pie.

Is there a dessert on this list that's a favorite of your family? What dessert might you try next? What are your favorite fall desserts?

photo credit

Fabric Pumpkin Tutorial

2011-10-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

I love these pumpkins!

For a fun and easy fall craft go visit Lindsay at

The Cottage Home for this lovely Tutorial.

November Menu Plan

2011-10-21T15:58:00.000-04:00

Click on Menu items to take you to the recipe. Zoom in and out with the + and - buttons. Download the menu plan by clicking the cloud button (to the left of the - button). Enjoy! November Menu Plan

Fall Delights: Snacks

2011-10-21T10:00:00.001-04:00

If you're like me when the weather gets chilly snacks are a must-have. I hope you find some yummy falls snacks from this list that will be a must-have for your fall afternoons or evenings!

I'm going to start with my all-time favorite beverage. I probably don't even have to post it here. You all have it memorized, right? *wink* Spiced Chai isn't necessarily a fall beverage for me since I drink it every day. But it is the best beverage for fall (in my opinion, anyway)!

Spiced Cider is second right next to Spiced Chai for fall beverages in my list! Perfect mix of apples and spices! Mmm...

I'm not a coffee drinker, but the spices and pumpkin in this Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe make it all worth while!

Since Monkey Muffins are rolled in cinnamon and brown sugar that makes it a fall kind of snack in my book! They are super simple and wonderful paired with my favorite beverage! *wink*

Ollie Kookins make me think of my grandparent's cabin up in the north woods of Michigan. They are so yummy fresh out of the deep fryer and rolled in powdered sugar! You have to make these to experience their cinnamon raisin goodness for yourselves!

Some of you may be thinking I'm a little wacky to put Applesauce on my list of fall snacks, but when you make homemade chunky applesauce and eat it warm you will know what I mean!

Amazing Caramel Corn ... need I say more?

Cinnamon Candied Apples are a must for fall! Their spicy, cinnamon, sugary, apple flavor is all the lovelies of fall rolled into one!

My kiddos love Spiced Pumpkin Fudge even through the holiday season!

Which recipe are you going to make first?! Or do you have a favorite that's not on my list? What are your favorite fall snacks?

Next week I'll share our favorite fall desserts!

photo credit

Fall Delights: Main Dishes

2011-10-20T10:00:00.000-04:00

I thought I'd take some time this week to share some yummy fall favorites. Today's recap is our family's favorite main dishes.

Chicken Pot Pie is the most requested dish in our home. It's a bit time consuming compared to the rest of the dishes, but oooh so worth it! Besides, nothing says lovin' like a homemade pot pie in the oven!

Chili is wonderful cooked on the stove or in the crock pot. Pair it with some corn bread or Ultimate Cheddar Bay Biscuits and you've got heaven in a bowl!

When I bring Cinnamon Chicken to the table all the kiddos start talking about the famous episode with the same name on Little House. Lots of good memories! Don't forget to serve it with Smashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Bacon and Honey Yeast Rolls! Top off the meal with Cherry Cinnamon Applesauce for dessert!

Creamy Chicken Sandwiches and Sloppy Joes are great dishes any time of year, but perfect to pop in the crock pot in the morning or early afternoon and have ready for dinner on a busy day! Serve either meal with simple sliced veggies and chips and you've got super easy meals. If you have time in your schedule, serve with some Zippy Steak Fries!

Pioneer Beef Stew is another one dish meal slow cooked in the crock pot! This stew is super simple and very tasty! Serve it with Easy Dinner Rolls to complete the meal!

Chicken (or Turkey) and Rice Soup
we often serve this soup for Sunday lunch. It's super easy to prep the night before (chop carrots, defrost already cooked chicken, mix up the seasonings) and then pop the ingredients in the crock pot in the morning before church. We like to serve it with Simple Garlic Bread!

There you have it. Our fall favorites! I hope your family finds a fall favorite from this list. There are more main dish ideas under the "Dinner" tab found under the header of the blog. Next time I'll share our favorite snack recipes!

photo credit

Apple Dip

2011-10-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

I know, I'm on an apple and pumpkin kick lately. Blame it on pregnancy hormones, but I just love this time of year and all the yummy foods that go with it! My mother-in-law made this several years ago for a get-together and it was so yummy I begged for the recipe. It's deeelish!

Apple Dip

8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. white sugar
1 t. vanilla
1 package (5 oz.) toffee bits

Combine cream cheese, sugars and vanilla in a mixer until well blended. Stir in toffee bits and serve with apple wedges.

Tip: Wedge apples beforehand (preferably same day), dip them in lemon-lime soda, place on a serving tray, wrap with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Enjoy!

photo credit

Simple Garlic Bread

2011-10-18T10:00:00.001-04:00

A friend made this for our family a while back and I was delighted over how simple it was and yet how flavorful! I'm warning you, though, you can't just eat one piece.

Garlic Bread

1 loaf of Texas toast (or Italian bread)
1 c. softened butter
2-3 T. Hidden Valley Ranch dressing dry mix packet
2 t. garlic powder

Mix the last three ingredients together and spread on Texas toast. Lay toast on baking sheet and broil. Keep a close eye to make sure the toast doesn't burn.

Enjoy!

Spiced Cider

2011-10-17T08:48:00.000-04:00

It's chilly again in our neck of the woods and other than Spiced Chai I can think of nothing better to sip on in the cool fall months than Spiced Cider!

Spiced Cider

1 gallon apple cider
1 c. orange juice
1 T. lemon juice
3 cinnamon sticks
1 t. allspice
1 t. ground cloves

Combine all ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil. Turn down to simmer for 6-8 minutes or keep warm on low. Strain and serve.

Enjoy!

What is your favorite fall beverage?

photo credit

Bay Leaves!

2011-10-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Yes! Bay leaves! If your house has been invaded with "lady bugs", which are actually a sort of beetle, then bay leaves are your solution!

My dear friend, Karla, over at the The Culinary Enthusiast told me last year to put a bay leaf in each windowsill and the lady bugs would stay away. I never got around to trying it because I was always out of bay leaves and could never remember to pick some up at the grocery. Well this fall I remembered! I bought a bottle of bay leaves for less than $2 and let me tell you I am enjoying a house free of lady bugs! Yes, we have a few strays on occasion, but this old farmhouse kitchen sometimes had at least a dozen crawling around the kitchen window alone. It was awful! This year...wonderful!

Now if could just do something about some pesky spiders that have been invading... I think I have a solution for that, too! I'll share it with you if/when I get the secret ingredient needed!

photo credit

Canned Apple Pie Filling

2011-10-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

I love pie! I know most of you have probably figured that out by now, but I just thought I'd emphasize it. Moving on...

I ran across this recipe years ago and have used it since to can some wonderful apple pie filling that makes the holiday prep time go so much smoother since we make several pies at a time.

Canned Apple Pie Filling

5 lbs. apples -- peeled, cored, and sliced
5 c. water
2 1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. corn starch
2 1/2 t. cinnamon
1 T. lemon juice

Sterilize 6 quart jars, lids and bands. You can either run the jars through the dishwasher and take them out as soon as the sterilize setting is done or boil them for 10 minutes. I do the latter. I also place the lids and bands in a saucepan and keep the water boiling until I'm ready to use them.

While the jars are sterilizing combine water, sugar, corn starch, cinnamon and lemon juice in a sauce pan and bring to a boil.

Fill hot jars with apples and pour syrup through a funnel (keep your jar rims clean) to the tops of jars (leaving 1/2 inch head space). Wipe rim and threads of jar to make sure it's free of sauce and then put on lids and bands. (I dry my lids and bands real quick with a clean towel before putting them on my jars so they don't rust.) Make sure the bands are tight, but not too tight! Process in boiling water for 20 minutes. (Make sure the water starts boiling after you put the jars in before you start the timer. Also make sure the water is covering the jars at least an inch.)

You might have some pie filling left over. If you do whip up a pie using either my Pie Crust Recipe or my Sour Cream Pie Crust.

Or place the rest of the filling into a baking dish and top with my fruit crisp topping recipe HERE. Bake as directed.

Like this recipe? Share it with friends on Facebook! Just click the "Like" button below!

photocredit

Fair Fun!

2011-10-13T07:00:00.000-04:00

We went to the fair last month and I thought I'd share some of our fun pics that we managed to snap in between rain showers.

Abby is comfortable around chicks and goats. She wasn't too sure about this piglet.

The kiddos always enjoy sitting in the new tractors.

He thought he might like to take this one home!

Eli looked super cute on this little zero turn mower!

Hannah could easily be a farm girl!

I couldn't resist an extra pic of Eli...love that little dude!

This goat thought maybe Abby would share her lollypop with her. Umm...notsomuch!

Look at the horns on this bad boy!

Of course no fair is complete without the kiddie rides!

Abby loved riding the carousel with big sister!

We also enjoyed elephant ears, cotton candy and fried cheese on a stick! We were too preoccupied with those yummies to snap some pics of that!

Homeschool Blog Awards

2011-10-12T08:02:00.000-04:00

Homeschool Blog Award Nominations are open!

Click the box to nominate your favorite homeschool bloggers.

Hint, hint...there's a category for

"Favorite Homemaking or Recipe Blog". *wink*

Seriously, though...I'd like to know who some of your favorite homeschool bloggers are. Do tell!

Impossible Pumpkin Pie

2011-10-12T07:00:00.003-04:00

It's October and I'm all about fun fall foods! Just in case you hadn't noticed lately with the Spiced Pumpkin Fudge and the Amazing Caramel Corn recipes!

My husband's uncle did not like pie crust at all when he was a child. I don't think he'd eat pie crust today if you paid him. So his mom (Grandma Frays) had to come up with something that he would eat during the holidays. She came up with this recipe. Now, don't get me wrong. I love, love pie crust! I think it totally completes the dish, but this crustless pie recipe is really good, too! I've found that kiddos that don't like pie like this recipe. Bakers who are intimidated by making pie crust love this recipe as well! Even if you are the queen of beautiful pie crusts give this recipe a try. It's super easy. You'll be glad that you did!

Impossible Pumpkin Pie
3/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. Bisquick
1 t. cinnamon
1/2 t. ginger
1/2 t. nutmeg

2 T. butter (softened)
1 can evaporated milk
2 eggs
1 16 oz. can pumpkin
2 t. vanilla

In your stand mixer (or mixing bowl) combine the dry ingredients (the first five) then add the rest of the ingredients. Mix on high speed for one minute (in a stand mixer or with a hand mixer). Pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish. Bake in a pre-heated 350 degree oven for 50-55 minutes or until you can pull a clean knife out while testing.

Enjoy!

photo credit

$5 Magazine Sale at Amazon.com!!

2011-10-11T11:15:00.000-04:00

Amazon has a magazine sale going on that ends today! Magazine subscriptions make great gifts!

Some of the magazines on sale for $5 are:

Country Living
Good Housekeeping
House Beautiful
Woman's Day
Town & Country
Road & Track
Popular Mechanics

Go check it out!

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2011-10-11T10:39:00.000-04:00

Here are the winners of the giveaways!

The winner of the Old House Mercantile Etsy Shop $10 gift certificate is...

James-Linda jldouglas@wispwest.net

Congratulations! I'll email you with details today!

~ ~ ~

The winner of either a 2012 Gooseberry Patch Wall Calendar or a

2012 Gooseberry Patch Recipe Card Calendar is...

Rebecca W. michael_weissathotmaildotcom

Congratulations! I'll email you with details today!

~ ~ ~

The winner of the storage tin giveaway is...

Mon_Cherie sweepingnews(at)gmail(dot)com

Congratulations! I'll email you with details today!

~ ~ ~

I'll be announcing the winner of the Gooseberry Patch

Slow Cookers, Casseroles, and Skillets cookbook when our little blessing arrives!

~ ~ ~

Thanks so much to all who played along!
I thought it was fun!
I hope you did, too!

~ ~ ~

Remember...

I'm offering my readers the 20% off coupon code

BIRTHDAY20

at my Old House Mercantile Etsy Shop throughout

the month of October.

Time Management

2011-10-10T14:22:00.000-04:00

Unless your name begins with "M" and ends in "artha" you probably need a little help staying organized and motivated. I have two simple programs that have worked wonders for me!

Tell Your Time by Amy Andrews

Ever set a goal with excitement and enthusiasm only to lose your oomph almost as soon as you started?
Do you have life goals? Are you reaching them? If not, does the thought of compiling a list overwhelm you?
Are you working toward your dreams or does life keep you too occupied?
Are you confident you’ll get to the end of life and be happy with how you spent your days?

These are all issues that you'll tackle in Tell Your Time....just 30 pages and four easy steps!

Right now it's just $3.99!

(click button below)

Once you have your priorities straight and goals made you need a

way to fit in all the little odds and ends such as cleaning and keeping home.

Motivated Moms

Print out a once a month or once a week planner that includes a small checklist of chores for each day.
Appointment section, extra reminders area included.
Bible reading plans can be included as well.
No more "cleaning days"... just a few minutes a day will keep you caught up so you can enjoy other things in your life like family, creativity, etc.

Right now just $4 for 2011 version!

2012 coming out soon!

(click button below)

Don't Forget!

2011-10-10T07:00:00.003-04:00

How could you forget? It's all I've talked about this week!
Today is the last day for some fun giveaways here on Old House Kitchen!

Remember...

Go HERE to get the DISCOUNT CODE to my Etsy Shop
(discount good for the whole month of October!!)

Go HERE to enter to win a gift certificate to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to play the trivia game to win a prize!

Go HERE to enter to win a set of storage tins!

Go HERE to guess baby's birth date to win a cookbook!

Birthday Palooza: My Favorite Things!

2011-10-08T07:00:00.003-04:00

What a fun week! I had all the fun and excitement I can handle this week with all these giveaways! I hope you all have had fun, too! Since it's my birthday and all I thought I'd leave you with list of my favorite things.

My hubby!

My Girls!

My Boys!

Fall! (and silliness!)

Spiced Chai!

*click on the pic to purchase at my Etsy site

Christmas Music!

(Which I started playing last week!)

Christmas with Harry Connick Jr.
(You can't go wrong with Harry! Love his voice!)

and last but not least...

This Blog and all the Wonderful Friends I've Made!

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Remember...

Go HERE to get the DISCOUNT CODE to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to enter to win a gift certificate to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to play the trivia game to win a prize!

Go HERE to enter to win a set of storage tins!

Go HERE to guess baby's birth date to win a cookbook!

All contests end Monday the 10th! at midnight!

Birthday Palooza: Guess the Birth Date Giveaway!

2011-10-07T07:00:00.065-04:00

One more giveaway! I hope you all are enjoying the fun! I know I am!

This giveaway winner won't be announced until the new little blessing is born so ya'll might have to be patient. I have been hush-hush at sharing the due date with a lot of people because all of you who have had babies know that the last thing you want to hear on or after your due date is "You're still around?!" or something interesting *a-hem* like that. But...for the sake of this giveaway I only think it's fair to share.

Our due date is November 4th.

*sigh* There..it's out.

So...onto the giveaway.

Leave a comment (only one per person, please) with your estimate
of when you think our little bundle will make his or her entrance (month and date).

Contest starts right now and comments will be closed on Monday, October 10th at midnight. I know...short amount of time, but you never know when I may go into labor. *wink*

The prize?

Every new mom's helper...easy meals and crock pots!

Gooseberry Patch's Slow-Cookers, Casseroles and Skillets Cookbook

Whoever guesses the correct date will be the winner! (If more than one person guesses the correct date then they'll have to duke it out in a game of rock-paper-scissors. Just kidding! I'll have one of my kidlets draw the winning name.)

Winner will be sent a copy of this wonderful cookbook! I did a review of it last summer. You can find those reviews and recipes HERE, HERE, HERE, and HERE. Phew!

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Remember...

Go HERE to get the DISCOUNT CODE to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to enter to win a gift certificate to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to play the trivia game to win a prize!

Go HERE to enter to win a set of storage tins!

Because It's My Birthday and You Need to Make This!

2011-10-06T07:00:00.018-04:00

Yep, it's me! The birthday girl with more birthday fun! I'm not going to make your head spin today with yet another giveaway...I'll do that tomorrow. *wink*

So today here's another repost of one of my favorite Fall recipes! Just because I lurv you!

You have to...just have to make this for a fun fall gathering or just because. Pinky promise?

Spiced Pumpkin Fudge

3 c. sugar
3/4 c. butter
2/3 c. evaporated milk
1/2 c. pumpkin
1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
12 oz. butterscotch chips
7 oz. marshmallow creme
1 tsp. vanilla

Combine sugar, butter, evap. milk, pumpkin, and pie spice in saucepan. Cook over medium heat to a boil. Add thermometer. Stir until it reaches the soft ball stage (230-235 degrees). Remove from heat, add butterscotch chips and stir until melted. Add marshmallow creme and vanilla and mix will. Pour into a 9x13 buttered pan. Cool, cut and enjoy!

* * *

Remember...

Go HERE to get the DISCOUNT CODE to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to enter to win a gift certificate to my Etsy Shop

Go HERE to play the trivia game to win a prize!

Go HERE to enter to win a set of storage tins!

photo credit

New Lovelies!

2011-10-05T18:29:00.000-04:00

There are several new lovelies over at my Etsy shop

that I want to share with you!

Two prim/country pumpkin towels

(click on the pics for the link to the etsy page)

A prim/country snowman towel.

Two cute gingerbread pot holders made by my Hannah!

Don't forget...

Go HERE to enter the gift certificate

giveaway to my Etsy shop!

and

Go HERE for the 20% off coupon code

to everything in my Etsy shop!